Skanska and Volvo Forge Path to Sustainability: Successful Trial of Volvo EC230 Electric Excavator in Los Angeles

Skanska USA, in collaboration with Volvo Construction Equipment, has initiated a groundbreaking trial in sustainable construction practices with the Volvo EC230 Electric excavator. Operating on the Purple (D Line) Extension Transit Project in Los Angeles, this venture sets a new standard for environmentally friendly construction equipment.

Mason Ford, Director of Sustainability and Equipment Services at Skanska USA Civil described this trial as an important step in reducing the carbon footprint. The Volvo EC230 Electric exhibited remarkable performance, achieving a 66% reduction in carbon emissions per hour and a 74% reduction in cost per hour compared to diesel-powered alternatives.

This 90-day trial not only challenges industry standards, but also lays the foundation for sustainable construction practices.  The electric excavators offer health and safety advantages, e.g. a reduction in vibration and noise which is beneficial for operators as well as the surrounding communities; besides lower emissions and operating costs.

The market for electric construction equipment is growing rapidly as global brands such as Dodge, MercedesBenz and Honda shift to a mobility solution based on sustainability. By ordering a thousand battery powered machines, major leasing companies are at the heart of this transition.

With a compound annual growth rate of 23.5%, the market for electric construction equipment is expected to grow from USD 10,1 billion in 2023 to USD 7,1 billion by 2032.  Innovative solutions and strict government regulations in the field of emissions and noise pollution support this growth.

The development of electric construction technology is being driven by the main players in this market, which include Volvo CE, Komatsu Ltd., JCB, Caterpillar Inc. and Sunward. Electric construction equipment is set to revolutionize urban development, creating a more sustainable and friendly environment for the community as infrastructure support increases and consumer adoption rates improve.

Despite the challenges of sustained viability and infrastructure support, this path clearly seems to be set. Significant investments and commitment by industry leaders have led to an increasing uptake and growth of the electrical construction equipment sector.