Machine Heads Video: Volvo Days 2024 Highlights New Mini Excavators and Compact Wheel Loaders
In the latest episode of Machine Heads, we take you to Volvo Days 2024. This is an event that showcases Volvo Construction Equipment’s latest innovations at its North American Customer Center in Shippensburg, Pennsylvania. The event brings together contractors, dealers and industry experts for an immersive, hands-on experience with Volvo’s cutting-edge machinery. This year, the spotlight shone on the EC37 and ECR40 mini excavators and the L30 and L35 compact wheel loaders. These are machines that are sure to make waves in the industry.
A Hands-On Experience with New Equipment
Volvo Days 2024, held at the 80-acre North American Customer Center, is a playground for construction professionals. This year, nearly 1,000 customers and dealers came to test the latest equipment, engage in product demonstrations and even take factory tours. The Machine Heads team had the chance to do it all. Now we’ll offer viewers an inside look at some of Volvo’s most exciting new machines from the event.
Among the new releases were the EC37 and ECR40 mini excavators, compact powerhouses designed with the operator’s experience in mind. These 3- to 4-metric ton machines are set to replace the EC35D and ECR40D models. This makes them a highly anticipated addition to Volvo’s compact excavator lineup. Featuring an elongated undercarriage for added stability and improved hydraulic controls, the EC37 and ECR40 aim to provide operators with smoother and more comfortable operation. They are perfect for handling tough tasks on small- to medium-sized jobsites.
Compact Wheel Loaders Steal the Show
The L30 and L35 compact wheel loaders were another highlight of Volvo Days 2024. These updated models come with a range of operator-focused improvements that Machine Heads host got to experience firsthand. Enhanced visibility, thanks to a slimmer dashboard, and a larger, more intuitive display make these loaders easier and more comfortable to operate. The ergonomic multi-function joystick adds to the ease of use, providing operators with better control over the machine’s advanced features.
One standout feature is the new boom kick-out and bucket leveler. This allows for pre-programmed lifting and tilting functions — a game-changer for precision work. Additionally, the L30 and L35 come equipped with an eight-pin harness on the boom. This makes it easier to switch between attachments without additional wiring, a major time-saver for both operators and service technicians.
Electric Machines and Tech Innovations
While much of the focus at Volvo Days 2024 was on compact equipment, Volvo’s commitment to zero-emission solutions was evident in their mid-size electric machines. The L120 Electric wheel loader and the EC230 Electric excavator continued to demonstrate the company’s leadership in electric construction equipment. These electric models were complemented by the L20 and L25 Electric compact wheel loaders and the ECR18 and ECR25 Electric mini excavators, giving attendees a look at the future of sustainable construction machinery.
But Volvo Days wasn’t just about machines — it was also a platform for showcasing Volvo’s cutting-edge technology. The company highlighted its Connected portfolio, featuring solutions like Connected Map, Connected Load Out, and Connected Performance Indicator, which provide real-time insights to boost jobsite efficiency and productivity.
Looking Ahead
Volvo Days 2024 was a comprehensive showcase of what’s next in construction equipment, blending machine innovation with advanced technology. The latest episode of Machine Heads captures the excitement and hands-on experiences from the event, giving viewers a front-row seat to the future of compact construction equipment. Be sure to check out the episode and stay tuned for more in-depth coverage from Volvo Days 2024, including interviews with industry leaders like Scott Young, president of Volvo CE’s North American region.
Keith Gribbins is publisher of Compact Equipment.
Let’s take a look at the smallest mini excavators on the market.