A new electric Volvo JL120 Wheel Loader, one of the first in the world, arrived in New Zealand late last year and has been participating in a series of field trials in preparation for a wider launch of new electric Volvo construction machines.
TDX, in partnership with Volvo Construction Equipment and working in collaboration with Fulton Hogan, has been conducting the tests to ascertain the machine’s suitability for local applications, as well as providing data and feedback regarding all-round performance.
“TDX has an outstanding relationship with Volvo CE, they know us well and how we operate, so they entrusted us to work with Fulton Hogan to deliver real-world information on charge times, load capacity, efficiency, work scheduling and the technical support required,” said Colm Hamrogue, TDX CEO.
“Participating in the trial helps us prepare for our own launch of compact electric machines later in the year as it provides insight into how the larger electric machines perform in specific environments, how long they can operate and also confirms they offer significant benefits across the board compared with traditional diesel machinery.
“The results so far demonstrate everything is stacking up in their favour.”
The response from operators who have used the new machine has been nothing short of outstanding.
“The team commented on how easy it is to use, the instant torque from the electric motor and operator comfort has been what has surprised the operators the most,” said Colm.
“Feedback such as this, together with other results complimentary of the new machine, validates the decision to go electric and makes us even more determined to help our customers on their carbon reduction journeys.”
The trial will continue for the immediate future, with machine results relayed to Volvo CE at the end of each day, while anecdotal reports are supplied weekly/ monthly.
To hear some of the feedback of the trials from both the Fulton Hogan and TDX team, view the video here.