Skanska, a leading construction and development firm, has completed a 90-day pilot program using the Volvo EC230 Electric excavator on the Purple (D Line) Extension Transit Project in Los Angeles, at the South Yard of the La Brea station. Skanska’s use of the zero-emissions equipment was among the first to pilot the Volvo excavator in North America.

The goal of the trial was to test the capability of a battery-powered excavator to perform the necessary construction work, particularly in relation to its diesel-powered counterpart.

The excavator was used to load trucks of export construction material from a stockpile. Results of the 90-day trial indicate that the Volvo EC230 Electric performed the necessary activities as intended while keeping the pace of work on schedule. The results noted in the initial findings indicate reduced emissions and lowered costs. The unit reduced carbon per hour by 66% (34 kilograms) and saved an estimated 74% in cost per hour ($15.15).

There were additional benefits from a health and safety aspect. The electric excavator generated much less vibration and noise than a diesel-powered version. Not only does this create a less exhaustive and better working environment for the operator, but it also results in less construction noise for the surrounding community. Favorable feedback from operators also included its ease of use and capacity.

Skanska aims to achieve net-zero carbon emissions along its entire value chain by 2045, with a 70% reduction in controlled emissions by 2030 globally.

Sunbelt Rentals supplied the Volvo EC230 Electric demonstration unit to Skanska used in this pilot program. Globally, the Volvo EC230 Electric excavator has been launched in Europe, where Skanska has utilized it recently on its Slakthusområdet project.