Volvo CE Announces Three New-Gen Compact Excavator Models
Volvo Construction Equipment isn’t waiting until CONEXPO-CON/AGG to make a splash. The company just launched three new-generation compact excavator models ahead of the tradeshow — the ECR90, EC65 and EW65. Volvo CE said these models replace the previous generation’s ECR88, EC60 and EW60, respectively. The new machines feature updates that translate to faster cycle times, increased versatility and maximum uptime for customers.
“Thanks to some significant upgrades, these machines deliver everything our customers need to succeed in utilities, agriculture, landscaping, general construction and more — all wrapped up in compact and highly maneuverable designs,” said Xavier Beaud, head of technology, compact business unit at Volvo CE. “They’re engineered to achieve big results across a wide range of jobsites thanks to additional engine power, improved digging, lifting and swing performance, longer service intervals and a fully refreshed operator environment.”
Volvo CE unveiled the ECR90, EC65 and EW65 during a press conference last week, as well as previewed its CONEXPO plans. Show attendees can get a peek at the ECR90 and EC65 in Volvo CE’s booth (F24029). The company also announced the launch of a new mid-sized crawler excavator and the North American introductions of two next-gen wheeled excavators and the next-gen A60 articulated dump truck during the press event.
A Closer Look at the New Machines
According to Volvo CE, the new ECR90 short-swing, EC65 crawler and EW65 wheeled excavators prioritize total cost of ownership, productivity and operator comfort. The models — which are now available for order in Europe, North America, Oceania, Korea and Japan — boast updates such as more engine power and hydraulic flow than the models they replace.
The company said the new 9-ton ECR90 is a powerful short-swing excavator built to compete with larger models, but can easily access and work in confined, restrictive jobsites. When compared to the ECR88, upgrades of the ECR90 include:
- 28% more engine power
- 15% more pump torque
- 13% more bucket force
- 11% more arm digging force
- 7% more tractive force
- A 30% larger cab
Volvo CE added that the 7-ton EC65 and EW65 deliver 4% and 6% more engine power respectively, along with a 9% increase in boom lifting force. These increases lead to faster, more reliable operation.
From the press release:
All three models support Volvo’s full range of compact excavator attachments, and their auxiliary hydraulic flow has increased, offering more precision and power for a wider range of tasks. On the EC65 and EW65, hydraulic flow is 100% higher, and on the ECR90, it’s 15% higher.
To further boost efficiency and versatility, these new machines are well-suited for tiltrotators (and can be factory-fitted with one in Europe). This allows for 360-degree rotation and 45-degree tilting of the attachment, so an operator can perform complex tasks without repositioning the excavator, saving time and fuel.
The wheeled EW65 features a top travel speed of 18.6 mph and easy-to-select work modes. These allow the operator to tailor the machine’s performance for travel, digging or parked work.
Improved TOC, Comfort and More
Volvo CE explained that the ECR90, EC65 and EW65 were built to minimize downtime and reduce total cost of ownership. The new models offer larger fuel tanks and extended service intervals — like 8,000 hours for DPF cleaning and 1,500 hours for hydraulic return filter changes — which reduce time spent on these common tasks. Maintenance is made easier (and safer) thanks to wide opening hoods and ground-level access to grouped service points. The company said standard telematics or optional advanced telematics boost productivity and uptime even farther.
The new models feature a fully refreshed cab environment that’s designed to keep the operator comfortable, safe and productive all day. Volvo CE emphasized the addition of a high-definition touchscreen display that offers helpful functions like attachment presets, rear and side camera views, service interval settings and Bluetooth pairing. The cab in all three machines also include a new seat with optional air suspension, wider adjustable armrests and a new tiltable left-hand console for easier entry and exit.
