Electric excavator boasts full day operation

The advanced technology behind the new generation makeover of the 23-ton EC230 Electric excavator from Volvo CE gives customers double the typical operating hours of its predecessor.

Now capable of a full day of operation on a single charge, the upgraded EC230 Electric signals a groundbreaking and sustainable evolution in heavy construction. Furthermore, the battery-electric excavator combines state-of-the-art features and an updated design with enhanced efficiency, greater safety and superior operator experience. The zero-emission heavy-duty solution – available to see at Bauma 2025 – will be rolled out to customers in Europe and North America from Q1, 2025.

The launch of the updated EC230 Electric marks a significant milestone in the transition towards sustainable construction solutions, offering the same robust – and now long lasting – performance as its diesel counterpart but with the added benefits of zero exhaust emissions, near silent operation, reduced vibration and instant torque. 

The mid-size machine, which has already been proving its worth on jobsites around the world, re-enters the market as the ideal partner for medium to heavy-duty applications, such as building, demolition and industrial material handling.

Kurt Deleu, Head of Product Management Excavators said: “Our first-generation EC230 Electric provided valuable customer insights and market feedback which played a pivotal role in shaping the development of this new generation model. With improved runtime, advanced technologies and expanded capabilities, the new and improved EC230 Electric builds on its strong legacy to deliver even greater benefits to customers and operators alike.”

Offering an extended runtime of 7-8 hours per charge – powered by its 600V lithium-ion battery with a capacity of 450 kWh – operators can now work a full day without interruption, making it ideal for noise-sensitive and environmentally restricted areas. 

Moreover, a peak motor power of 160 kW ensures a performance equivalent to diesel excavators, while fast charging capabilities allow the battery to reach from 20% to 80% in just 1 hour with a 250-kW charger.

Hydraulic efficiency is also improved by 10% and – when matched with additional features such as Volvo Active Control, On-Board Weighing and Dig Assist 2D and 3D – the electric excavator offers unparalleled machine guidance and control. This not only provides more precise digging, shorter cycle times and reduced operator fatigue, but it sets a new standard for electric performance by maximizing productivity while minimizing environmental impact.