Volvo CE has introduced the world’s first electric articulated dump trucks, the A30 Electric and A40 Electric, which weigh 29 and 39 metric tons, respectively. These trucks were unveiled at Bauma, the largest construction equipment trade show in the world, last week.
According to Volvo, both models deliver performance on par with their diesel equivalents, but with lower emissions, reduced noise, and decreased vibration for operators. They also incorporate enhancements from the newly designed next-generation ADT range that Volvo announced in January.
The trucks offer a run time of 4 to 4.5 hours per charge for most applications, although this may decrease during heavy tasks. Conversely, the runtime can extend up to 7 hours on less demanding activities, such as driving downhill while fully loaded or uphill when empty.
Volvo reports that the lithium-ion batteries in these trucks can be quickly charged from 20% to 80% in approximately one hour. Additionally, operators can monitor charging status, machine hours, and energy usage through Volvo CE’s My Equipment app, accessible both on-site and remotely.
The company estimates that the A30 Electric will reduce carbon dioxide emissions by 84%, while the A40 Electric will achieve a 90% reduction compared to their diesel-powered counterparts over the trucks’ operational lifespans.
Volvo intends to initially release these trucks in Europe next year on a limited basis for select customers, with plans for increasing production in the years ahead.
“These electric haulers represent a significant advancement in our goal to decarbonize construction, maintaining the outstanding performance our customers expect while providing a more sustainable operation,” stated Mats Sköldberg, head of technology at Volvo CE. “As the first battery-powered articulated haulers in their class globally, we are excited to evolve our lineup by integrating our premier electric technology into a completely new segment.”
Quick Specs
A30 Electric
Payload: 32 U.S. tons
Bed volume: 23.3 cu. yd.
Max horsepower: 355
Battery capacity: 245 kWh
A40 Electric
Payload: 43 U.S. tons
Bed volume: 31.4 cu. yd.
Max horsepower: 469
Battery capacity: 350 kWh
