Check out Volvo’s newest short-swing excavator ahead of CONEXPO-CON/AGG 2026

Volvo Construction Equipment has added a short-swing model to its latest generation of excavators with the launch of the new ECR255. The 25-ton excavator will make its tradeshow debut at CONEXPO-CON/AGG 2026 alongside a wide range of product and a live product demonstration pit.

Features of the ECR255 short-swing crawler excavator 

The compact design, strong performance, and operational efficiency of the ECR255 make it a smart choice for contractors working in confined spaces and demanding environments — from urban construction to utility and infrastructure projects. 

The ECR255 replaces the previous generation's ECR235E, providing a 7 percent increase in lifting capacity and a 10 percent reduction in fuel consumption. It joins the large ECR355, mid-size ECR145 and compact ECR90 excavator as short-swing models in Volvo CE's latest excavator series.

Impressive efficiency, strength, and precision

The new Volvo ECR255 excavator's advanced electro-hydraulic control system includes a smart cooling system and engine speed regulation for higher torque at a lower rpm. This enhancement means smoother, more responsive operation, less opportunity for the loss of energy, and up to 10 percent less fuel consumption compared to the ECR235E. Features like auto-idling, automatic engine shutdown, and customizable work modes also help keep operating costs in check without compromising performance.

The ECR255 excavator delivers a 7 percent increase in lifting capacity because of its redesigned structure and heavier counterweight, making it a more versatile machine choice for contractors. With Volvo Active Control, its boom and bucket movements can be automated for faster, more accurate digging and grading, helping operators complete tasks up to 45 percent faster and reducing fatigue. The floating dozer blade and the ability to set boundary limits and boom and swing priority functions make the ECR255 well-suited for complex work on confined job sites.

A focus on uptime, safety, and operator experience 

Long service intervals — including 1,000-hour engine oil and 3,000-hour hydraulic oil changes — minimize downtime and reduce maintenance costs. Service points are grouped for easy access, with ground-level refilling and quick-drain ports. Volvo's standard telematics and optional advanced telematics provide real-time machine insights and predictive maintenance support for maximum uptime.

For ultimate site safety, contractors can add Volvo Smart View with Obstacle Detection, which gives operators 360-degree visibility of the machine's surroundings and the ability to distinguish between objects and humans.

Operators will enjoy the new excavator's spacious cab, which is about 20 percent bigger than most short-swing excavator cabs. It's quiet, comfortable and supports productivity with upgrades like a larger, higher-resolution Volvo Co-Pilot display, more ways to customize machine settings and improved heating and cooling performance. Modern conveniences like Bluetooth connectivity, wireless phone charging and a heating and cooling compartment for food and beverages ensure operator satisfaction.

"This launch means Volvo now offers a comprehensive range of short-swing models in our new generation of excavators, giving customers the flexibility to choose the right machine for their application without compromise," said Jaesu Kim, chief project manager, Volvo CE. "It's designed to help customers do more in confined spaces thanks to its reduced tail swing, increased lifting capability, lower fuel consumption, and industry-leading operator environment."