Short-swing excavator expands Volvo CE 25-ton class

Volvo Construction Equipment introduces the ECR255 to extend its latest excavator generation for confined urban, utility and infrastructure applications.  www.volvoce.com Volvo Construction Equipment has launched the ECR255, a 25-ton short-swing excavator designed to combine compact dimensions with higher lifting performance and lower fuel consumption for work in space-constrained environments. Positioning within Volvo CE’s excavator range The ECR255 replaces the previous ECR235E and completes Volvo CE’s latest-generation short-swing lineup, which now spans the compact ECR90, mid-size ECR145, 25-ton ECR255 and large ECR355. The machine will make its first public appearance at CONEXPO-CON/AGG 2026 in March, where Volvo CE is presenting its updated excavator portfolio. Short-swing excavators are increasingly specified for urban construction, utilities and infrastructure renewal, where reduced tail swing lowers the risk of contact with obstacles while maintaining digging and lifting capability. Performance and efficiency updates Compared with the ECR235E, the ECR255 delivers a reported 7% increase in lifting capacity and up to 10% lower fuel consumption. These gains are attributed to a redesigned structure, a heavier counterweight and an updated electro-hydraulic control system. The hydraulic system integrates engine speed regulation and a smart cooling concept to provide higher torque at lower engine speeds, reducing energy losses during operation. Standard efficiency features include auto-idling, automatic engine shutdown and selectable work modes, allowing contractors to tailor performance to specific tasks without increasing operating costs. Precision and productivity in confined spaces The ECR255 supports advanced machine control functions through Volvo Active Control. Automated boom and bucket movements assist with grading and digging accuracy, with Volvo CE indicating task completion times can be significantly reduced in repetitive operations. Additional features such as a floating dozer blade, boundary limits and boom- and swing-priority functions are intended to support complex workflows on restricted jobsites. Uptime, safety and operator environment Maintenance intervals have been extended, with engine oil changes at 1,000 hours and hydraulic oil at 3,000 hours, helping reduce planned downtime. Service access is simplified through grouped service points, ground-level refilling and quick-drain ports. Standard telematics, with optional advanced functionality, provides condition monitoring and supports predictive maintenance strategies. Safety options include Volvo Smart View with Obstacle Detection, offering 360-degree visibility and differentiation between objects and people around the machine. Inside the cab, Volvo CE has focused on operator ergonomics and productivity. The cab volume is larger than typical short-swing excavators, with improved climate control, a higher-resolution Volvo Co-Pilot display and expanded customization of machine settings. Connectivity and comfort features such as Bluetooth, wireless phone charging and a temperature-controlled storage compartment are included to support long shifts. Application focus By combining compact tail swing, higher lifting capacity and improved fuel efficiency, the ECR255 is positioned for contractors working in dense urban environments and infrastructure projects where space, precision and operating costs are critical constraints. www.volvoce.com Powered by Induportals Media Publishing