Volvo Bridges the Gap with the New EC350E

In what I see is a hint of things to come when the new F-Series Volvo excavators are launched, the Swedish manufacturer has launched the all new EC350E, which slots into the existing excavator range between the EC300E and the EC380E.

The 35-tonne excavator is described by Volvo as the go-to guy for general construction duties. And with a total height of under four meters when loaded on a trailer, it can be transported without dismantling – taking the hassle out of site moves.

This new model is brimming with the latest technology. Operators can select several functions depending on the task at hand and their preferences. This includes boom/swing and boom/travel priority, enabling one function to take the lead over another. The boom-down speed can also be adjusted, giving added control for tasks that require extra precision. A range of matched Volvo Attachments enable the job to get done with optimum productivity, efficiency and performance. 

Those of us who have spent long days in the cab of an excavator, know only to well, how stressful it can be on the mind and body, but thanks to Volvo’s boom-and-arm bounce reduction technology – lessening machine shocks, life is a whole lot more comfortable. The Volvo excavator cab has always been a great place to spend a shift, but now the new Comfort Drive Control option further helps reduce fatigue by enabling operators to steer the machine using the joystick rollers instead of the pedals. There are also customizable settings that include a ‘long push’ functionality on the joystick, allowing operators to set an additional shortcut function.

Operators are further assisted in their tasks by the optional Dig Assist apps – powered by the 10in. Volvo Co-Pilot tablet. These include 2D, In-Field Design, 3D software packages, and On-Board Weighing. Not forgetting Volvo Active Control, which automates boom and bucket movements, making digging twice as fast. With Volvo Active Control, operators can also set swing fence, height limit, and depth limit. This helps to avoid contact with side obstacles, overhead obstacles such as power lines, and underground hazards such as pipes and cables.

Low operating and maintenance costs

The EC350E delivers class-leading fuel efficiency, thanks to a combination of features that includes the classic ECO mode, selectable work mode and intelligent electro-hydraulics. The D8M Volvo engine features a power rating of 1,600 rpm while delivering impressively high torque at low rpm, and comes fitted with auto-idle and shutdown to help reduce unnecessary fuel use.

With auto-regeneration technology, the machine doesn’t need to be stopped to clean the diesel particulate filter. Additionally, the hardworking (and hot) turbo-chargers are carefully cooled, thanks to an optional delayed engine shutdown feature, which helps avoid overheating and increases the machine’s reliability. Also contributing to increased machine reliability is the electro-hydraulic system, which requires fewer hoses than is normal – reducing the need for couplings and minimizing maintenance requirements.

Time and maintenance costs are further reduced, due to the engine oil and filter change intervals of 1,000 hours, as well as ground-level access to grouped filters. And when the urea needs topping up the new splash guard makes filling quicker and easier – while also reducing the risk of spillage and subsequent corrosion.

Take a look at this promotional video from Volvo Construction Equipment to find out more.