Amid great anticipation from customers across Southern Africa, Babcock is introducing the new generation Volvo articulated haulers and excavators. The new ranges have been updated with some of the most exciting features, meeting customer needs in areas of productivity, operator comfort, safety and efficiency, resulting in lower total cost of ownership.
Following their global introduction in January this year, the new generation articulated dump trucks (ADTs) and their excavator counterparts from Volvo Construction Equipment (Volvo CE) have generated a buzz across the global earthmoving equipment market. Customers in Southern Africa can finally get their hands onto these new machines, with Babcock set to officially take the wraps off at a grand launch event at the end of June.
“This launch marks a significant milestone in our long-standing partnership with Volvo CE, and in our commitment to helping reshape construction and mining operations across Southern Africa. These new-generation machines are more than just equipment – they are smart, efficient, and aligned to our customers’ need for sustainable productivity. We are proud to bring them to market,” says Roger O’Callaghan, CEO Africa at Babcock International Group.
The updated ADT models mark a significant technological leap forward thanks to innovations such as the new electronic system and an in-house developed transmission, delivering fuel efficiency improvements of up to 15% depending on model and application.
“We are excited about the arrival of the new-generation, most technologically advanced Volvo articulated haulers to date, which we believe will reinforce our leading position in this market segment. While the range comprises seven models, we are initially bringing to market the updated A40, A45 and the all-new A50. The A30 and A60 will be introduced at a later stage,” says David Vaughan, MD of Babcock’s Equipment business.
With its ability to identify and remember any slippery road segments, the Volvo drivetrain with Terrain Memory ensures superb fuel efficiency without compromising on power. Automatic drive combinations, with 100% differential locks and all-terrain bogie and hydro-mechanical steering, also combine to provide unmatched traction, stability and precision control.
In addition, Volvo Dynamic Drive – with its predictive gear selection – adapts to operating conditions. The downhill speed control function and industry-leading braking systems further enhance efficiency, safety and comfort.
With simplified servicing, longer change intervals and easy component access, servicing is now quicker and easier than ever before, maximising uptime and reducing costs. Industry-leading greasing intervals of 250 hours also eliminate the need for daily or weekly greasing, boosting productivity and reducing downtime. In addition, Volvo articulated haulers are said to require less fluid volume compared to the competition, benefitting the environment and reducing operating costs.
While all the new models break new ground with key innovations, Vaughan is particularly excited about the arrival of the all-new A50, which not only broadens the model line-up to cover more applications, but also plugs an important gap between the existing 42-t A45 and the 55-t A60.
The major talking point on the new A50 is the full hydraulic suspension concept. Pioneered by Volvo CE in 2007, the full suspension has proved to be a reliable system for the toughest of driving conditions. Many mining and quarrying companies worldwide have praised the unique technology for the benefits it has brought them in terms of productivity and operator comfort, all while being just as durable and dependable as a traditional suspension.
The new Volvo excavator range comprises the EC210, EC220, EC260, EC300 and EC360. However, Babcock will initially bring in the EC210, EC220 and EC300. The range combines cutting-edge technology, robust design and industry-leading efficiency to benefit various industrial applications.
In the 20-22-t market segment, Babcock is launching the 21-t EC210, which replaces the previous EC200DL, as well as the new EC220, which replaces the old-generation EC210DL. The two models are ideally suited for general construction, plant hire and earthworks applications. The larger 30-t EC300 fits the bill for mid-size construction sites, sand works and small-scale quarrying operations.
Each of the models integrates engine-pump optimisation technology, delivering up to 15% fuel efficiency compared to previous models. The new range features increased hydraulic flow for responsive, accurate control in digging and loading operations. Operators benefit from smoother, easier movement when digging as well as travelling and lifting simultaneously, due to the harmonised boom and arm movement.
The revamped cab offers improved ergonomics, intuitive controls and advanced human-machine interface (HMI) systems, providing operators with a comfortable, productive working environment, with enhanced visibility, reduced noise levels and efficient HVAC systems.
In recent tests conducted by Volvo CE, the EC210 delivered an up to 7% productivity edge and 14% better fuel efficiency over competitor offerings in a similar weight class – even when operated at lower RPMs. For contractors in Africa, juggling performance expectations with fuel economy and uptime, the EC210’s results suggest it is more than capable of punching above its weight – particularly in applications such as road construction, site prep and utilities.
The new EC220 was tested against the EC210, where it delivered 32% greater productivity, while maintaining similar fuel efficiency at a similar RPM. This highlighted its value in high-volume operations such as materials handling and bulk excavation. The EC220 therefore makes a strong all-rounder, marrying power and precision for work that demands both.
All models are compatible with Volvo Dig Assist, an optional intelligent machine control system that improves excavation precision and productivity. Operators can utilise tools such as real-time weighing, automated digging, and smart monitoring, which enhance efficiency, with Volvo Smart View producing 360° machine visibility. Additional features such as preset depth, height, and swing limits further enhance on-site safety.
“Southern Africa is a key market for Volvo CE, and Babcock is an essential partner in delivering on our customer promise here. The feedback from early global adopters of these models has been exceptional – especially around operator comfort and fuel efficiency. We are confident these innovations will resonate with customers across the region,” says Joakim Arndorw Head of Sales Region International at Volvo CE.
The selected models making their debut are immediately available at all Babcock branches across Southern Africa. Equally, all the relevant parts have been stocked throughout all Babcock equipment outlets in the region well ahead of the launch.