A side-by-side performance evaluation carried out in the Gulf offered a rigorous proving ground for three of Volvo’s new models – the EC210, EC220, and EC360. Pitted against comparable machines from other leading global OEMs in a series of truck loading trials, these excavators were assessed across a range of metrics central to contractor priorities in the Middle East and Africa: productivity, fuel efficiency, durability, safety, operator comfort, and serviceability.

To ensure a fair and consistent comparison, each machine was operated in the exact same location, following identical dig, swing, dump, and repeat cycles. The performance data was averaged across the operators: a Volvo R&D specialist with 15 years of excavator operating experience, and two local construction professionals with a combined 22 years of experience.

While each brand brought strong capabilities to the field, the evaluation highlighted how Volvo CE’s latest excavator design and engineering upgrades are translating into measurable gains on site.

EC210: Efficient power in the 22 t class

Volvo EC210 excavator

Designed for the 22 t class, the EC210 delivered an up to 7% productivity edge and 14 % better fuel efficiency over competitors in a similar weight class – even when operated at lower RPMs.

“For contractors in the Middle East and Africa juggling performance expectations with fuel economy and uptime, the EC210’s results suggest it’s more than capable of punching above its weight – particularly in applications such as road construction, site prep, and utilities,” explained Olle Watz, excavator product manager for Volvo CE Region International.

EC220: Stepping up the output

Volvo EC220 excavator

The EC220 was tested against the EC210, where it delivered 32% greater productivity, while maintaining similar fuel efficiency at a similar RPM. This highlighted its value in high-volume operations such as material handling and bulk excavation.

“The EC220 makes a strong all-rounder, marrying power and precision for work that demands both,” Olle said.

EC360: Delivering more than expected

Volvo EC360 excavator

The largest of the new generation Volvo excavators launched in January 2025 delivered particularly impressive results against a larger class competitor. Even while running at a more fuel-efficient 1,500 RPM, the EC360 recorded up to 25% higher productivity and 21% fuel efficiency than the rival machines running at their peak RPM.

“These figures indicate the EC360’s potential to outperform bigger machines in real working conditions with lower fuel costs,” Olle said.

It’s all in the details

Skid-resistant plates and orange handrails

Performance stats are only part of the story. As the trials made clear, it’s the thoughtful design touches across the latest Volvo excavator generation that help create safer, sturdier, and more user-friendly machines.

Features such as larger track holes to prevent dirt build-up, extensive wear strip coverage, sealed wiring, and undercarriage protection enhance long-term reliability – a key consideration in the abrasive and dusty conditions typical on jobsites in the Middle East and Africa.

Safety and operator comfort were further strong points. Volvo was the only brand in the test to include a ROPS-certified cab as standard. Add to that a sturdy safety lever, built-in deck lighting, slip-resistant surfaces, intuitive handrail placements, and a rear-view camera embedded in the counterweight and it’s clear the machines are engineered to protect.

Inside the cab, the operators praised the climate control and visibility, as the Volvos has the most air vents among the machines tested and an intuitive control layout designed to reduce fatigue during long shifts.

From ground level access to service points to a smaller engine hood designed for quick checks and easy maintenance, Volvo’s approach to uptime and serviceability also won recognition.

The verdict: Performance that matches the promise

“The demanding conditions of the Middle East make it one of the most challenging environments to operate in – and that’s exactly why we chose it for this test,” Olle explained. “The EC210, EC220, and EC360 not only delivered exceptional performance and efficiency, but they also demonstrated the kind of design innovation and operator-centric thinking that defines our new generation.”

In a competitive market where multiple OEMs bring strong offerings to the table in the Middle East and Africa, these trials reinforced Volvo CE’s ability to stand out through a combination of cutting-edge technology, smart fuel use, and real-world reliability.

To find out more about the EC210, EC220, and EC360 excavators and how Volvo CE can provide solutions for your applications, please visit the Volvo CE Africa or Middle East website.