Volvo Pipelayers

Released in the second quarter of 2008, Volvo's PL4608 and PL4611 Pipelayers outdo traditional side-boom-equipped pipelaying bulldozers by boosting tipping capacity to 80 to 110 metric tons. The largest version, the PL7015, has a 150-metric-ton tipping lift capacity — 40 percent higher than the largest side-boom bulldozer, according to Volvo Construction Equipment. In addition, unlike side-boom bulldozers, Volvo Pipelayers boast a 360-degree swing design for repositioning pipes without having to move the entire machine. They also have an environmentally sealed cab. Estimated list price: $799,000 for PL4608; $967,000 for PL4611.