Skanska Electric Excavator Reduces Hourly Costs

Skanska said its test of a Volvo EC230 electric excavator reduced carbon by 66% and saved an estimated 74% in cost per hour. The company ran a 90-day pilot program using the  EC230 at La Brea station in Los Angeles in an application similar to one performed by a diesel-powered machine. 

Skanska’s use of the zero-emissions equipment was among the first to pilot the Volvo excavator in North America. The goal of the trial was to test the capability of a battery-powered excavator to perform the necessary construction work, particularly in relation to its diesel-powered counterpart.

The excavator was used to load trucks of construction material from a stockpile.

Read also: Volvo, WM test electric excavator

There were additional benefits from a health and safety aspect, according to Skanska. The electric excavator generated much less vibration and noise than a diesel-powered version. Not only does this create a less exhaustive and better working environment for the operator, but it also results in less construction noise for the surrounding community. Favorable feedback from operators also included its ease of use and capacity.

“Skanska is proud to be a part of this pilot with Volvo which can serve as a catalyst for the evolution and adoption of lower emission construction practices,” said Mason Ford, director of sustainability and equipment services for Skanska USA Civil, in a statement. “Aligned with our commitment to a cleaner future, the successful completion of this pilot program represents a significant stride forward for the entire industry.”

Read also: Volvo CE's 23-Ton Battery-Electric Excavator to Work in Stockholm

Skanska has set ambitious climate targets across its global operations and aims to achieve a 70% carbon reduction by 2030 in its operations and across its entire value chain.

Source: Skanska