Volvo Construction Equipment (Volvo CE) has marked its first-ever electric construction equipment trials in the UAE with the testing of the L120H Electric wheel loader in Abu Dhabi. The deployment alongside dealer Al-Futtaim Auto & Machinery Company (FAMCO) and ALAS Emirates Ready Mix, a leading supplier of ready-mix concrete in the UAE, marks a significant step towards sustainable construction practices in the region and aligns with Volvo CE’s commitment to innovation and environmental responsibility.
The L120H Electric is a 20-tonne wheel loader that uses the market-recognised conventional machine as its base. It promises the exact same performance as the conventional machine but alongside the environmental advantage of being emission free, with near silent operation and a much more comfortable work environment. It is powered by 282 kWh batteries for a runtime of eight hours in light and medium duty applications, with the ability to work indoors and in noise sensitive areas.
FAMCO conducted the trial of the Volvo L120H Electric wheel loader at the ALAS Emirates Ready Mix worksite in Abu Dhabi, with the machine tasked with loading from stockpiles to a feeder hopper for the ready mix.
“We’ve been privileged to experience first-hand the high-performance capabilities of the Volvo L120 Electric,” said ALAS Emirates Ready Mix Production Manager Elie Touma. “The low noise and vibration reduction has created a comfortable work environment for our operators, which has been reflected in a measured uptick in productivity.”
The decision to test the L120H Electric wheel loader in the UAE reflects Volvo CE’s dedication to meeting the evolving needs of the construction industry in the region. With the UAE’s growing focus on sustainability and green initiatives, the introduction of the electric loader underscores Volvo CE’s commitment to supporting the nation’s sustainability goals and contributing to a greener future as the nation continues to prosper, with the UAE construction market valued at $98.3bn in 2023.
“Bringing our L120H Electric wheel loader to the UAE for testing means seeing the machine working in one of the most dynamic and ambitious markets in the world,” said Ilkay Fidan, Commercial Manager for Volvo CE in the Middle East. “By working closely with our partners and customers in the UAE, we aim to deliver solutions that not only meet their operational needs but also contribute to a cleaner and more sustainable future.