Volvo introduces the LX03, a prototype of electric charger with self-learning concept

Fully autonomous and electric, the concept developed by Volvo Construction Equipment is the first real example of a wheel loader with the intelligence to make decisions, perform tasks and interact with humans. It is also the first time a LEGO® Technic model has been transformed into a real machine. Although not yet commercially available, the LX03's innovations will be the basis for current and future applications.

Inspired in a concept created by Volvo CE and LEGO® Technic engineers and designers, the Volvo LX03 is a milestone of innovation. It represents Volvo CE's next step in smart machines, in line with the brand's determination to decarbonize the construction industry.

Volvo CE President Melker Jernberg says, "We need to transform the construction industry with smart, more sustainable solutions that have a global impact. The unveiling of the LX03 prototype represents exactly that: it is proof of the incredible expertise of our engineers and our commitment to positive change. Together with the LEGO Group, we are pushing the boundaries of technology and imagination. The result goes beyond anything the world has seen so far."

Lars Stenqvist, Volvo Group Chief Technology Officer, says: "As a leader in transport and infrastructure, we have a key role to play with actions that impact climate change and accelerate the pace of innovation to meet emissions targets. We believe in working with motivated and creative partners who, like us, are focused on making innovation happen and going beyond mere words."

Pioneer Partnership

What began as a project between designers and engineers from the two companies to explore the potential of the future of construction has evolved with the successful introduction of the 42081 LEGO® Technic Concept Wheel Loader ZEUX.

LEGO Technic product manager Niels Henrik Horsted says, "Our two companies have enjoyed an extremely successful partnership over the years, where we have collaborated on several LEGO Technic models. But this is the first time we've made a real machine based on a model rather than the other way around, and that's what makes this project truly unique."

Collaborative machines

The LX03 prototype was built by a dedicated team of Volvo CE engineers, programmers, and technicians in Eskilstuna (Sweden) and Konz (Germany), in collaboration with the Gothenburg design team at the brand's headquarters in Sweden. The result is a 5-ton wheel loader, developed as a modular concept that can be produced in a larger or smaller size with few changes in the manufacturing process. It also shares its transmission with the Volvo L25 Electric, making it a zero-emission, low-noise machine with an autonomy range of up to eight hours, depending on the application.

The LX03 is designed to be an intelligent and safe machine, able to adapt to different scenarios, making real-time decisions and, most importantly, collaborating with humans. The equipment can be programmed by customers to perform heavy, repetitive, or dangerous tasks, reducing the need for a human to be on site where the work is being done.

Find out more at: https://www.volvoce.com/global/en/this-is-volvo-ce/what-we-believe-in/innovation/zeux/