Designed to tackle tough jobs in tight corners – while delivering everyday low operating costs

The E-Series compact excavators by Volvo Construction Equipment (Volvo CE) provide the agility and go-anywhere flexibility to squeeze themselves into the tightest of spaces. The EC15E, EC18E and EC20E are small but tough models that replace the previous D‑Series of excavators, while the short-swing ECR18E is a new addition to Volvo CE’s compact range.

The E-Series models have a common platform that is built with durability in mind. All‑round steel panels are safely recessed 10mm behind the Volvo exclusive high-profile cast iron counterweight, which ably provides protection and digging stability. With a machine height of a little over 2m and a variable undercarriage that can shrink to less than 1m – these new models can gain access to even the most confined of work areas. Once in position, the undercarriage can expand up to 1.35m for additional stability. The design ensures that the right frame corner, swing post and cylinder all stay within the tracks, resulting in maximum visibility and a reduced risk of machine damage when working alongside obstacles.

 Small machine, Big performance

The EC18E and EC20E take performance to a new level, with a 13 per cent increase in tractive force and respectively 2,130kg and 3,120kg of combined digging forces. Their lifting capacity has increased by an average of 22 per cent at the front compared to the D-Series they replace, plus an extra 7 per cent at the side on the EC20E.The 11 per cent longer undercarriage of the EC18E contributes to even better all-round lifting capacity and stability, compared to the previous generation, with a 140mm increase in digging depth.For further flexibility, the auxiliary hydraulic flows can be independently adjusted in each direction, ensuring optimal speed and control, and a second auxiliary line is also available as an option.