Construction giant Skanska has completed a 90-day pilot program using the Volvo EC230 Electric excavator on the Purple (D Line) Extension Transit Project in Los Angeles. The goal of the trial was to test the capability of a battery-powered excavator to match the performance of a legacy diesel-powered machine.

The excavator was used to load trucks with construction material. Results from the trial indicate that the Volvo EC230 Electric performed the necessary activities as intended while keeping the pace of work on schedule. Compared to a diesel-burner, the electric machine emitted 66% less carbon, and saved an estimated 74% in costs per hour of operation.

Operators also noted health and safety benefits. They found the electric excavator easier to use, and found that it generated much less vibration and noise than the old fossil-burners.

“The successful completion of this pilot program represents a significant stride forward for the entire industry,” said Mason Ford, Director of Sustainability and Equipment Services for Skanska USA Civil. “Change doesn’t happen overnight, but this type of investigation into the possibilities furthers the conversation around electrification and sustainable innovation within civil construction.”

Source: Skanska