Volvo Construction Equipment tests first EC500 Electric excavator

Volvo Construction Equipment has launched customer testing for its first EC500 Electric pre-build machine in Norway. This 50-tonne class excavator is designed to match the performance of conventional models while utilizing a flexible electric power system.

The machine features both onboard battery capacity and grid-connected capabilities, including a 35m cable reel. The battery allows for two to three hours of operation depending on conditions, enabling the machine to move, load, unload, or relocate without a constant grid connection. Additionally, the system includes intelligent grid energy management to support peak shaving and adapt to varying 400V grid conditions, which can reduce the need for high-capacity infrastructure on job sites.

Testing is currently taking place in demanding environments such as quarrying, road building, and tunnel projects to gather feedback on performance, charging, and operator experience. The EC500 Electric is expected to be available for sale starting in spring 2027, with serial deliveries beginning later that year.