VolvoCE’s Electric Compact Machines Going the Distance at bauma
Volvo Construction Equipment is charging into the future with a bold refresh of its compact electric machines. With improved runtime, enhanced comfort, and new versatility features, the updated ECR25 Electric excavator and L20 and L25 Electric wheel loaders are not just better machines — they’re smarter, cleaner, and tougher contenders on the job site.
Making their grand debut at bauma in Munich, Germany, these revitalised machines mark six years since their initial unveiling in 2019. And much like the construction industry they serve, they’ve evolved dramatically.
According to Thomas Bitter, Head of the Compact Business Unit at Volvo CE: “With our new generation of compact electric machines, we have raised the bar even higher to offer our customers versatile, zero-emission solutions that can work much longer on a single charge.”
Longer Runtime, More Productivity
Let’s start with the real showstopper – the upgraded ECR25 Electric compact excavator. This machine now boasts a doubled battery capacity, leaping from a 20kWh to a 40kWh lithium-ion battery. In practical terms? You’re looking at up to eight hours of runtime under typical workloads — that’s a full day’s work without breaking a sweat.
Even more impressive, despite the increased battery size, the charging time hasn’t changed. Users can still top up from 10% to full in around five hours with the onboard 3-phase AC grid chargers or go from 0% to 80% in just 1.5 hours using a DC fast charger.
The ECR25 is a dream machine for tight urban areas or indoor work. Thanks to its short swing radius, zero emissions, and near-silent operation, it fits right into places where noise and air quality regulations are strict, such as basements, hospitals, and densely populated neighbourhoods.
Other user-friendly updates include a weight reduction for easier transportation and coloured LED charging indicators that provide clear visual cues for operators. The optional PU40 mobile power unit offers added flexibility, ensuring no charging opportunity is missed.
Bigger Batteries, Smarter Features
Volvo’s wheel loaders haven’t been left behind in this electric renaissance. The L20 Electric now comes standard with a 21% larger battery capacity, bringing it on par with its bigger sibling, the L25 Electric. For even more juice, customers can opt for a 56kWh battery, a 40% increase over previous offerings.
Both loaders benefit from an improved and simplified charging experience, meaning less downtime and more work getting done.
Where these loaders really shine is in their adaptability. Volvo has packed in a wide array of attachments and options:
- Hydraulically adjustable loading forks with tine positioning and side shift
- 1.1m³ high tip bucket and 0.7m³ recycling grapple bucket for specialised tasks
- Tyre options including solid rubber for recycling sites, L5 cut-resistant tyres for rough terrain, and low ground pressure tyres for delicate environments like sports fields or agricultural land
Operator Comfort and Safety Get a Boost
While battery upgrades steal the headlines, Volvo hasn’t overlooked the cab experience. The new HVAC system delivers powerful heating, ventilation and air conditioning for year-round operator comfort. Safety features also take a step up:
- Bright LED work lights mounted on the cab roof
- Daytime running lights for better visibility
- Orange handrails to meet job site safety regulations
- Reversing cameras to reduce blind spots
These machines also deliver excellent off-road capabilities with 100% parallel movements and superior traction control. Whether it’s navigating rough terrain or operating in tight indoor spaces, the L20 and L25 are designed to deliver.
A Smart Solution for Green Construction
Volvo CE’s investment in electric machinery isn’t just about bells and whistles – it’s part of a broader mission.
“These machines are ideal for inner-city and sensitive environments due to their zero tailpipe emissions of substances like NOx, which are harmful to air quality and human health,” adds Bitter. “With these new compact electric models, Volvo CE is committed to accelerating the transition to electromobility.”
The growing emphasis on green construction and sustainable infrastructure has sparked a major shift in equipment procurement. More contractors, municipalities and developers are seeking out electric options that reduce environmental impact without compromising performance.
And Volvo CE is clearly paying attention.
Market Availability and Order Timeline
Ready to roll out in selected European markets, including the UK, Germany, France, the Netherlands, Norway, and Sweden, the ECR25 Electric will be available from Q1 2026. Meanwhile, the L20 and L25 Electric models will start shipping before the end of this year.
Customers in these regions can start placing their orders later this year. If Volvo’s track record is anything to go by, demand is likely to be high — especially with the growing number of low-emission zones and noise-sensitive projects popping up across Europe.
A Leap Forward, Not Just a Step
By doubling runtimes, enhancing operator experience, and delivering industry-leading versatility, Volvo CE’s new compact electric machines are much more than just incremental upgrades. They represent a turning point in the adoption of sustainable construction equipment.
For project managers, contractors and site engineers looking to future-proof their fleets, these machines offer a compelling mix of practicality, performance and green credentials.
With innovation at its core, Volvo CE is not just keeping up with the times – it’s helping define what the future of construction looks like.
