Innovative Iron Award: Volvo Construction Equipment’s EC37 and ECR40 Compact Excavators

The off-highway equipment industry has made significant strides in 2024, introducing machines that are smarter, greener and more efficient and powerful than ever before. Compact Equipment‘s 2024 Innovative Iron Awards celebrate these advancements, highlighting equipment that sets new standards in performance, sustainability and operator comfort. See all the winners here. Now, let’s celebrate…

Volvo CE’s EC37 and ECR40 Compact Excavators

In the mini excavator world, there were a lot of revamps in 2024. The small, tool-carrying excavator market continues to heat up, so manufacturers continue to introduce new models or improve older units. It’s some of those latter redos that caught our collective attention this year. Volvo Construction Equipment‘s new EC37 and ECR40 compact excavators fall into this innovative category. Launched in January 2024 and replacing the EC35D and ECR40D, these two digger/attachment takers are standout models in the ultra competitive 3- to 4-metric-ton class, combining operator-focused design with robust performance.

These units prioritize safety, comfort and control. With enhanced stability from an elongated undercarriage and simplified maintenance, the EC37 and ECR40 set a new benchmark in stable, comfortable compact excavation. These units feature spacious, ergonomic cabs with excellent visibility thanks to slim corner pillars and large glass panels. Innovative touches like floating armrest controls, customizable hydraulic flow settings and an efficient Eco mode boost productivity while reducing fuel costs by 10 percent.

“The 3- to 4-ton size makes up about a quarter of the compact excavator market in North America, so the EC37 and ECR40 will likely be very popular,” explained Darren Ashton, product manager for compact equipment at Volvo Construction Equipment, during an interview with CE earlier this year. “They were designed with the operator’s experience in mind, as folks will see with the updated controls, HMIs and hydraulic settings. The elongated undercarriage reduces the dreaded rocking chair effect for operators too.”

What Sets the EC37 and ECR40 Apart

These new excavators boast numerous enhancements that make them stand out, including:

• Enhanced Operator Comfort: Spacious, ergonomic cabs with slim corner pillars, wide glass areas and floating armrest controls.
• Fuel Efficiency Improvements: A 10 percent increase in fuel savings through features like Eco mode and auto engine shutdown.
• Optimized Hydraulics: Load-sensing systems with customizable settings for attachments, improving adaptability and precision. “The load-sensing hydraulics are definitely a highlight,” said Ashton. “The way the controls are set up and the smooth movements are just outstanding, and it all works together for better fuel efficiency.”
• Improved Maintenance: These new machines boast 50-hour greasing intervals and a fuel tank capacity of 18.5 gal. The patented multifunction hydraulic oil filter provides outstanding protection to the hydraulic system. The engine and rear hoods feature wide openings, and the engine doesn’t require a diesel particulate filter.
• Improved Stability: An elongated undercarriage reduces rocking, offering a smoother operating experience.

“On the 37 and the 40, two of the biggest changes we made were lowering that center of gravity and lengthening the undercarriage. You could stick these two to the side of a hill,” explained Darren Ashton, during a visit to Volvo Days 2024.

These upgrades cater to a wide range of applications. These units are great for everything from confined urban worksites to big open dig construction zones.

Designed for the Operator

Volvo has really prioritized the operator experience in these new models. The EC37 and ECR40 feature a highly intuitive HMI (human machine interface) system. It features a 5-in. display and jog wheel controls, making it easy to customize settings. These updates simplify operation and ensure maximum efficiency, whether working with buckets, thumbs or specialized attachments. The difference between the two models lies in their design:

• The EC37 features a conventional upper carriage.
• The ECR40 offers a short swing radius for work in tight spaces.

Both models share a robust counterweight, which has been standardized across several Volvo compact excavators, further streamlining fleet management.

Volvo Days 2024: Hands-On Experience

During Volvo Days 2024 in Shippensburg, Pennsylvania, industry professionals and journalists, including our Compact Equipment team, had the chance to operate these machines. This event showcased Volvo’s dedication to customer feedback and hands-on demonstrations. Operating the EC37 and ECR40 confirmed their impressive stability, smooth hydraulics and operator-friendly controls. The elongated undercarriage significantly improved balance and reduced vibrations, addressing common operator complaints about compact excavators.

The Mini Excavator Market: Why Compact Matters

The compact excavator market continues to thrive. The 3- to 4-metric ton models account for over 25 percent of North American sales. This segment’s popularity stems from its versatility, ease of transport and ability to handle various tasks, from utility trenching to demolition. Mini excavators also excel as tool carriers, handling attachments like augers, breakers and compaction plates. Volvo’s ability to integrate these functionalities seamlessly into its machines ensures contractors maximize their investment.

Industry Trends: Electric and Smart Technologies

The mini excavator market is also evolving with advancements like electric models. While Volvo’s electric mini excavators are not new, the company continues to be a leader in pushing battery power. These technologies enhance jobsite safety, efficiency, noise and air quality, making compact excavators even more appealing to contractors.

“Electric is certainly a growing factor in the compact excavator market, largely because that’s where batteries can currently keep up the best,” said Ashton. “Electric machines allow you to work in places where diesel may not be welcome because of fumes and noise, so we’re seeing them turn heads in segments like indoor demolition, agriculture, food production, and any type of work in residential areas or during off-hours. They’re also much simpler when it comes to maintenance because you don’t need to worry about fuel, fuel systems, filters and engine oil changes.”

Why Volvo Compact Excavators Deserve Recognition

Volvo CE’s EC37 and ECR40 represent the best in compact excavator redesign. Their operator-focused features, fuel efficiency and versatile hydraulics set a new standard in the market. Backed by Volvo’s Lifetime Frame and Structure Warranty, these machines are a reliable choice for contractors seeking durable and efficient equipment. With their well-deserved Innovative Iron Awards, the EC37 and ECR40 demonstrate why Volvo continues to lead the compact equipment industry.

“There are so many compact excavator OEMs,” said Ashton. “You need to do your research and find a dealer that has the parts, service capabilities and knowledge that will support your machines. It’s also important to consider all the things you could possibly want your excavator to do. The EC37 and ECR40 are versatile machines, so it’s a chance to think outside the box a bit. You might even be able to take on work you couldn’t do before if you have the right machine.”

Keith Gribbins is publisher of Compact Equipment.

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