Volvo Construction Equipment has recently completed successful trials of the L120 Electric wheel loader in the United Arab Emirates (UAE), partnering with dealer FAMCO and key customer ALAS Emirates Ready Mix.
This event marks Volvo CE's first foray into electric construction equipment testing in the UAE, indicating a significant move towards sustainable construction practices.
The L120 Electric wheel loader, a 20-tonne machine, is built on the same platform as its conventional counterpart, delivering equivalent performance but with the added benefits of zero emissions, near-silent operation, and enhanced operator comfort. The loader is equipped with 282 kWh batteries, allowing eight hours of operation in light to medium duty applications, including work in indoor and noise-sensitive environments. This electric model embodies a shift towards reducing the carbon footprint and noise pollution typically associated with diesel-powered construction equipment.
During the trials, conducted at an ALAS Emirates Ready Mix facility in Abu Dhabi, the L120 Electric demonstrated high performance and reliability, loading materials efficiently with minimal noise and vibration. This contributed to a more comfortable and productive work environment for operators, as noted by ALAS production manager Elie Touma. Touma emphasised the loader’s quick response times and the role of reduced emissions in aligning with corporate and environmental responsibilities.
The wheel loader is optimised for the region's climate.
Volvo CE evaluated the electric loader's performance under the UAE's unique climatic and operational conditions, confirming its suitability and meeting high customer expectations in the region.
Volvo CE's transition to electric equipment aligns with the broader goals of the Volvo Group, which aims to achieve net-zero greenhouse gas emissions across its value chain by 2040—a decade ahead of targets set by the Science Based Targets initiative. This commitment reflects Volvo’s dedication to environmental care and its leadership in driving industry transformation towards sustainable practices.
Ilkay Fidan, Volvo CE's commercial manager for the Middle East, remarked on the strategic importance of testing in the UAE, a mature market with significant potential for electromobility. The positive outcomes from the trials strengthen Volvo’s confidence in rolling out electric models more broadly in the Middle East.
Volvo L120 Electric wheel loader shines in UAE tests
Volvo CE's latest electric wheel loader. (Image source: Volvo CE)
