VolvoCE ECR355EL Excavator Powers New Horizons for Miwa Construction in Japan
The bustling construction landscape in Japan has a new heavyweight contender: the Volvo ECR355EL excavator. Miwa Construction, a respected Japanese firm known for its versatility in civil engineering and agricultural projects, has welcomed this advanced machine into its fleet, marking its first foray into Volvo Construction Equipment.
Currently tackling its inaugural project in Numazu City, Shizuoka Prefecture, this state-of-the-art excavator is proving invaluable for the demolition and redevelopment of a local school, a project demanding precision, power, and reliability.
Miwa Construction had initially planned on acquiring a standard 20-ton excavator to suit its diverse operational needs. However, after an impressive trial with Volvo’s ECR355EL—a robust 32-ton machine with a range of advanced features—the decision to go bigger came easily.
This pivot not only underscores the trust that Miwa has placed in Volvo’s engineering but also hints at broader horizons for the company’s future projects.
A Giant Leap in Efficiency and Environmental Standards
Volvo’s ECR355EL offers a distinct blend of stability, power, and eco-conscious operation, making it well-suited for Japan’s highly regulated construction industry. Akio Miwa, President of Miwa Construction Co. Ltd, highlighted the machine’s surprising fuel economy, reduced emissions, and operational ease as standout attributes. He note: “We thought the fuel economy might not be as good as alternatives, but after trialling the machine several times, we found it to be much better, as well as quieter and with lower emissions. We are extremely pleased with its performance and advanced features.”
These attributes align with Japan’s strong environmental regulations, making Volvo’s machines an appealing option for contractors looking to optimise efficiency while adhering to sustainable practices. For Miwa Construction, this has translated into potential expansion in the types of projects it can undertake, including more complex, larger-scale operations, all while minimising the environmental impact.
Key Features of the Volvo ECR355EL:
- Enhanced Fuel Efficiency: Delivers a lower cost per project, thanks to its fuel-conserving electro-hydraulic technology.
- Reduced Emissions: A green choice that meets high environmental standards, crucial for urban and eco-sensitive projects.
- Quiet Operation: Minimises noise pollution, a benefit for projects near residential or public spaces.
- Manoeuvrability in Tight Spaces: Perfect for Japan’s densely populated urban areas, where space is often at a premium.
Advanced Technology in Action
Volvo’s commitment to innovation is evident in the ECR355EL’s design. Built with advanced electro-hydraulic technology, this machine boosts lifting capacity and digging force, which is especially valuable for tasks such as pipelaying, trench-box installation, and complex utility work. Its short-swing radius design also offers exceptional stability in tight spaces—ideal for Japan’s crowded construction sites. Shoji Isamu, Head of Market Japan at Volvo CE, shared his enthusiasm, saying: “This machine is a testament to our commitment to delivering cutting-edge equipment that not only enhances efficiency but also meets the highest possible environmental standards.”
The machine’s sophisticated cab design enhances operator comfort with features like automatic climate control, reducing fatigue during prolonged shifts. Volvo’s emphasis on operator-centric design, which includes a low-noise environment, contributes to higher productivity and lower turnover rates, critical for Japanese construction firms where skilled labour is in high demand.
Expanding Miwa Construction’s Capabilities with Volvo CE
The ECR355EL wasn’t just a purchase—it was a strategic investment for Miwa Construction, backed by local Volvo dealer SKY Construction Equipment. SKY’s support extends beyond the initial delivery; its after-sales parts and maintenance services based in Shizuoka ensure that the ECR355EL remains in peak condition, guaranteeing minimal downtime on site. With the addition of this powerful, efficient excavator, Miwa Construction can confidently bid on projects that require a machine with both heavy-duty capabilities and agility.
In addition to SKY’s support, Volvo’s global reputation for reliability and customer service strengthens Miwa Construction’s decision to embrace this new equipment. The dealer’s focus on providing responsive, localised assistance means that, should any issue arise, Miwa’s operations will remain smooth and uninterrupted, ultimately ensuring a quick return on investment.
Unlocking Opportunities for Future Projects
With the ECR355EL in its arsenal, Miwa Construction is already exploring opportunities to expand its portfolio into larger, more complex projects. The company’s decision to invest in this machine was rooted in its versatility and eco-friendly features, positioning Miwa to meet evolving client demands for sustainable, efficient solutions.
“The decision to invest in Volvo will open new opportunities for us, and this will be a key piece of equipment that strengthens our ability to deliver high-quality construction services,” Miwa confidently stated.
Notably, the ECR355EL’s flexible design makes it suitable for various applications beyond demolition and reconstruction. This versatility aligns well with Miwa’s core values of adaptability and growth. By harnessing the power and precision of Volvo’s engineering, Miwa can confidently pursue contracts in diverse sectors, including urban infrastructure, specialised excavation, and environmental engineering projects.
How the ECR355EL Sets Itself Apart
One of the unique aspects of the ECR355EL is its optional dozer blade, which Miwa Construction opted to add. This feature aids in levelling the excavator on uneven ground and accelerates site clean-up, reducing time and labour costs. Additionally, the dozer blade enhances stability, allowing operators to fully utilise the machine’s lifting and digging capacities, even in challenging environments.
The advanced hydraulic system also deserves attention. It offers an intuitive control system that allows for precision handling, making the ECR355EL a game-changer on sites where accuracy is paramount. This flexibility enhances work efficiency and offers an optimal balance of speed and control—factors that reduce fatigue and support better project outcomes.
The Road Ahead for Miwa Construction and Volvo
Miwa Construction’s investment in the Volvo ECR355EL represents a pivotal shift towards advanced technology and sustainable practices within Japan’s construction industry. With SKY Construction Equipment’s local support, the company can ensure that the excavator’s benefits are fully realised, enabling it to maintain operational efficiency and seize new growth opportunities.
Volvo CE’s commitment to environmental stewardship and cutting-edge engineering continues to resonate within the Japanese market. As Japan’s construction landscape evolves, embracing innovative equipment like the ECR355EL could pave the way for other firms to follow Miwa’s lead, investing in machines that meet both operational and ecological requirements.
