Volvo electric mini excavator now available with optional straight boom
The straight boom EC18 Electric mini excavator has a 10 percent higher pin height
After the release of Volvo Construction Equipment's electric mini excavator for indoor demolition work, contractors noted that one key update would make the machine even better: a straight boom.
The EC18 Electric, a 1.8-ton battery-electric mini excavator that is optimally sized for indoor demolition can now be fitted with an optional straight boom that gives operators a 10 percent higher pin height than the standard boom configuration.
Reaching higher with a straight boom
As demolition contractors know, a straight boom offers longer reach than a standard two-piece boom design and typically makes it easier to position the machine, especially in tight spaces.
On the EC18 Electric excavator, the straight boom option offers a 13-foot (396-cm) working height (with bucket) and can be equipped with a range of attachments weighing up to 450 pounds (204 kg).
It can also be factory-fitted with a demolition guarding package to better protect the operator and the machine.
As more contractors bid on jobs with emission reduction requirements and more safety inspectors emphasize dust and noise control, electric equipment is proving to be a simple way to meet the growing requirements without compromising on power or longevity.
The straight boom option will allow contractors to reach higher and work faster as they take on a growing number of fume- and noise-restricted jobs.
"Electric compact excavators' lack of emissions and reduced noise have made them popular options for indoor demolition," said Tony den Hoed, director of demolition strategic accounts at Volvo. "Contractors told us that a straight boom on the EC18 Electric would give them the extra height needed to reach ceilings while still easily fitting through doorways. Nimble machines are critical for indoor demolition, and we welcomed the opportunity to provide a solution that will help our contractors win more jobs."
Demolition show debut in New Orleans
Visitors to Volvo's booth at the Demolition New Orleans trade show can test out the new straight boom configuration themselves.
The Volvo EC18 Electric Straight Boom Showdown will challenge operators to place a series of rings on a tall pole in the shortest time possible.
"Adding a competition element is not only fun, but contractors also come away impressed by how powerful and quiet the electric machines are," said den Hoed.
Sales on the updated excavator will begin in mid-2025.
