Volvo’s new L120 Electric wheel loader weighs 20 metric tons and has a 6-metric-ton lift capacity, making it the largest for the North American market.
Volvo Construction Equipment (CE) continues to innovate by introducing the new L120 Electric wheel loader, set to be the largest battery-powered loader in the North American market. Weighing 20 metric tons and boasting a 6-metric-ton lifting capacity, this loader is scheduled for release in select North American markets in the fourth quarter of this year.
Expanded Electric Lineup
At Volvo Days 2024 in Sweden, Volvo CE also unveiled the 15-ton L90 electric wheel loader and the 15-ton EWR150 wheeled excavator, both slated for launch in select European markets in 2025.
Performance and Features
The L120 Electric offers comparable performance to its diesel counterpart, with a lithium-ion battery system capable of running for 5 to 9 hours on a single charge, depending on usage. Charging options include:
- 7 hours with a 40-kilowatt DC mobile charger
- 1 hour and 40 minutes for a full charge from 10% to 100% with a 180-kilowatt DC fast charger
Advantages of Electric Power
According to Volvo, the electric loader provides several benefits over diesel models, including:
- Zero emissions
- Quiet operation
- Reduced vibration
- 30% lower maintenance costs
- Rapid response time
- Smoother cycle operations
New Business Opportunities
Volvo notes that the electric loader can operate in sensitive environments where diesel machines cannot, opening new opportunities for contractors. The electric equipment has been used in diverse settings such as racehorse farms, zoos, beekeeping operations, and ski resorts.
Innovative Design
The L120 Electric is equipped with separate electric motors for propulsion and hydraulics. The system recoups braking energy to extend battery runtime, reduce brake wear, and minimize the need for axle oil cooling. The loader also features active cooling and heating of the high-voltage batteries, as well as passive cooling for the electric motors, transmission, and hydraulic oil.
Standard Features
The electric L120 includes many of the same features as the new diesel L120H model, such as:
- On-Board Weighing: Automatically measures the load in each bucket.
- Torque Parallel Linkage: Provides high breakout torque and parallel movement for stability and easier bucket filling.
- Electro-hydraulic lever controls
- Auto bucket-leveling functions
Versatility
The electric loader is compatible with a range of Volvo attachments, including various buckets, forks, grapples, brooms, and snowplows.
Watch the L120 Electric in Action
To see the L120 Electric in action, check out Volvo’s promotional video below:
Quick Specs
Volvo released the following chart outlining the L120 Electric’s specifications:
