Volvo Construction Equipment of Sweden has launched its new E-series of wheel loaders that combine high productivity, low fuel consumption and low environment impact.

The new E-series are ideal machines for rock, rehandling and log handling applications, the company said.

Following on from the earlier introduction of the L220E - which successfully made its debut at Bauma 2001 - Volvo has launched four new models of the E-series wheel loaders.

Consisting of L120E, L150E, L180E and L330E besides the L220E, the E-series of wheel loaders offer a number of new features.

Volvo wheel loaders are known for high productivity and low fuel consumption "because they have perfect coordination between electronically controlled engines with high torque already at low engine speeds, transmission with four different shifting programmes for optimal productivity in different application and a load-sensing hydraulic system", says Torbjšrn Gustafsson, deputy design manager at Volvo Wheel Loaders AB.

The E-series wheel loaders are powered by Volvo electronically-controlled, low emission engines, EU Step 2, featuring high torque at low engine revs.

''This provides excellent rimpull and full hydraulic power in the economy working range between 1,100 and 1,600 rpm, which equates to fast response and low fuel consumption,'' Gustafsson explains. ''The E-series features an intelligent, load-sensing hydraulic system. Two variable piston pumps provide the exact flow and pressure required at any given moment, distributing power where and when it's needed in combination with rapid response.

''This system facilitates smoother operation, lower fuel consumption, quicker hydraulics and shorter working cycles even at low engine revs.

''Volvo's patented lift arm system, TP-Linkage, together with the hydraulic attachment bracket, provides the wheel loader with flexibility, power and all-round capability, where maximum breakout force is provided from the ground and up, at the same time keeping excellent parallel action throughout the entire lifting range.

''For control and monitoring of operation and performance, an integrated electronic network, Contronic, is provided. This system's three computers monitor operational functions in real time, store all data for analysis and make it possible to re-programme and update the machine's various functions.

''With the E-series, Contronic has been given additional functions that increase safety and peace of mind for the operator. The control panel continuously relays information about fuel consumption, oil levels, fluid levels and temperatures.

''The E-series are all equipped with the Care Cab that offers an excellent working environment.

''All air in the cab is filtered in two steps in order to obtain the cleanest cab environment on the market. First, the air goes through the fresh air filter, and then recirculated through the main filter.

''The operator's comfort and well-being are uppermost in the design of Volvo equipment. The operator is able to sit comfortably, and operate all controls and instruments as everything has been designed ergonomically to prevent fatigue.

''The new rounded exterior design provides excellent visibility all around the machine while the improved service hatches and platforms result in increased safety and better serviceability.''

Other new features include an enhanced powershift transmission with APS (Automatic Power Shift) adjusted to match the low rev engines, resulting in fast work cycles.

The new frame design and the three-point engine and transmission mount have reduced vibrations and cab noise level even further.

New functions in Contronic monitoring system include 13 languages, oil and fluid levels warnings at low levels to prevent damage or costly repairs, on-the-go monitoring of fuel consumption and ambient temperature indicator.

Meanwhile, Volvo has also developed a completely new backhoe loader range.

The backhoe loader which was displayed for the first time at ConExpo in Las Vegas, US, last month, was developed by a highly experienced team of product specialists coming from key markets worldwide.

The new loader will be produced at Volvo Poland Industries in Wroclaw, Poland, a state-of-the-art Volvo manufacturing facility, where Volvo manufactures part of its range of buses.

The yearly average world market for backhoe loaders is between 50,000 and 70,000 units.