Volvo CE pilot project allows contractors to build and price electric equipment online

Volvo Construction Equipment has created an online tool that allows users to "build and price" their ideal electric compact excavator and wheel loader.

Initially available in North America and Norway, the tool on the Volvo CE website lets users configure any of the electric compact machines in Volvo's lineup with the features they want and see the suggested retail price.

"Construction equipment customers do a lot of research online already, and our configurator tool puts even more information at their fingertips," says Jefferson Yin, director of new business models and commercial intelligence at Volvo CE. "We're especially happy we can give them a price estimate because that's something other brands aren't doing. Customers will continue to be supported by their local Volvo CE dealer during the sales process and with ongoing support after their purchase."

Simplifying the buying process

Since Volvo CE first opened pre-booking for its electric machines in 2020, users have been able to reserve a machine online. Now, they can also configure their machine and instantly see the manufacturer's suggested retail price (MSRP).

The configurator tool will walk users through these options:

• Package: There will be pre-built configuration packages to choose from with options tailored to different applications and user needs.
• Canopy or cab: The ECR25 Electric compact excavator includes a choice of canopy or cab. That option will also exist for the EC18 and ECR18 Electric compact excavators this fall (these are available for reservation now for a 2023 delivery). The L20 and L25 Electric compact wheel loaders come with a cab.
• Attachments: Common attachments will be available to select, and a dealer will follow up on any special attachments that may be needed.
• Chargers: U.S. contractors will have two options to choose from standard and high-powered chargers. Canadian contractors will be able to purchase a standard 600-volt charger.

Ultimately, the user will see a price estimate (MSRP). Their information will go to a Volvo CE dealer in their area who will respond within 48 hours, providing more detailed pricing and offering all the support and information they typically get from a dealer, such as an opportunity to demo the machine and financing options from Volvo Financial Services.

"This is the next step in our electromobility journey and digital transformation," says Yin. "The goals are to improve the customer experience, provide an easy understanding of our industry-leading electromobility offering and ensure a seamless sales experience."

Starting as a pilot project in the U.S., Canada, and Norway, the new touch point will serve as a test bed for future solutions that could be scaled up for other markets.