We at Volvo CE have incorporated a plethora of cutting-edge technologies into our machines for better performance and efficiency
Innovation is in VOLVO CE’s DNA, Volvo CE machines have a reputation for high performance, fuel efficiency and reliability. In an exclusive interview to CONSTRUCTION OPPORTUNITIES, DIMITROV KRISHNAN, MANAGING DIRECTOR, VOLVO CE INDIA PVT LTD, details on the cutting edge technologies featured in his company’s machines, future technology trends and a lot more.
Your views on how and to what extent the latest technologies like telematics, AI, etc revamped the project execution in the construction/infrastructure domain.
Latest technologies like telematics and AI have revolutionized project execution in the construction and infrastructure domain by enhancing efficiency, safety, and decision-making. Telematics provides real-time data on equipment usage, maintenance needs, and fuel consumption, optimizing fleet management and reducing downtime. AI enables predictive analytics for better planning, risk assessment, and resource allocation. Together, these technologies streamline operations, improve productivity, and ensure more sustainable project execution, driving the industry toward smarter, data-driven solutions.
Cutting edge technologies featured in your machines and details of the benefits accrued to your end user from the digital technologies in your machine.
We at Volvo CE have incorporated a plethora of cutting-edge technologies into our machines for better performance and efficiency. Volvo CE machines feature cutting-edge technologies such as ActiveCare telematics, Co-Pilot operator assist systems, and autonomous solutions. These technologies provide real-time data on machine performance, fuel consumption, and maintenance needs, allowing users to optimize productivity and reduce operational costs. The Co-Pilot system enhances precision with features like Load Assist and Dig Assist, improving accuracy and reducing material waste. By leveraging these digital tools, users benefit from increased efficiency, lower downtime, and improved safety on-site, resulting in better overall project outcomes. All Volvo machines are equipped with fuel-efficient engines and advanced hydraulics, which significantly reduce fuel consumption without compromising performance, resulting in substantial operational cost savings.
Details us as to how these technologies improve productivity and lower TCO. Also detail us on the initiatives taken by your company to train the operators and end users.
Volvo CE’s advanced technologies significantly enhance productivity by delivering real-time machine data that improves accuracy and optimizes operations. Innovations such as CareTrack and AI-driven predictive maintenance reduce fuel consumption, prevent downtime, and enhance operator efficiency, resulting in increased uptime and lower repair costs.
Designed for high fuel efficiency and reduced emissions, Volvo CE machines minimize total cost of ownership (TCO). Features like Load Assist and Co-Pilot further optimize operations, reduce waste, and improve machine utilization, contributing to substantial long-term cost savings.
Additionally, Fluid Analysis is a comprehensive diagnostic service that evaluates various fluids in construction equipment, including engine oil, hydraulic fluid, and coolant. This analysis identifies potential issues by detecting contaminants, wear particles, and other indicators of equipment health, ensuring proactive maintenance and enhanced performance.
We invest heavily in operator training through initiatives such as the ‘Operator on Wheels’ simulator, allowing operators to hone their skills in a safe environment. With collaboration with the Infrastructure Equipment Skill Council (IESC), Volvo also promotes operator certification, ensuring personnel are well-prepared to handle advanced machinery.
To what extent and how have these technologies helped your company in Aftermarket services.
At Volvo CE, the integration of technologies like AI-driven predictive maintenance plays a pivotal role in our aftermarket services by improving machine uptime and minimizing unexpected downtimes. These tools allow our service teams to proactively address potential issues before they lead to major failures, ensuring smooth operations for our customers. Additionally, the insights from machine performance analytics help us offer more precise and tailored maintenance plans, leading to reduced total cost of ownership (TCO).
Our aftermarket support extends beyond immediate repairs, focusing on long-term customer profitability. By leveraging these technologies, we ensure that machines run at their optimal performance while also offering flexible financing, rapid spare part availability, and a highly trained network of service technicians. All of this combines to deliver a comprehensive aftermarket solution that maximizes machine efficiency and value throughout its lifecycle.
Detail us on the challenges faced while adopting and imbibing technologies in your machines, availability of vendors, customized software requirements and acceptance of these technologies by medium and small users.
Implementing such technologies has not come without its own challenges, with vendor availability being the top one. Developing and integrating the sophisticated software solutions required for our products highlights the critical need for a strong network of technology vendors. As the industry evolves, the demand for vendors capable of addressing increasingly specific requirements becomes essential, aligning with the highly customized nature of Volvo CE’s offerings. Another major challenge lies in the need for tailored software solutions. Since each customer or project may have distinct requirements, creating software that is both flexible and scalable is difficult, but crucial for ensuring that these solutions meet the diverse and evolving demands of our clients. To overcome the barriers to technology adoption faced by smaller users, we have implemented strategic solutions. Recognizing that medium and small businesses may not have the economies of scale to absorb high upfront costs or the trained workforce to operate new technologies, our team has taken proactive steps. We have invested heavily in training programs to equip users with the necessary skills, and introduced flexible solutions like Equipment-as-a-Service (EaaS). This model allows users to access the machinery they need on a pay-per-use basis, significantly reducing the financial burden and making advanced technology more accessible to all businesses.
How do you ensure the data is secure and there is no loss of data on account of internet connectivity and other operating challenges.
We include best-of-breed cybersecurity measures to secure data. For example, CareTrack telematics employs data encryption to provide security to the information, while firewalls regulate unauthorized access. The system stores data locally and synchronizes it if connectivity is unavailable. It also uses backup systems in case of data loss to ensure continuous protection and availability of critical information. These procedures will ensure sensitive data remains safe, even in trying times.
Unmanned machines are already in existence in countries abroad, is your company planning to launch any in India and by when.
At VCE, we are at the forefront of developing cutting-edge autonomous technology, collaborating closely with key global customers. Our innovative product lineup includes Autonomous Haulers and Remote-Controlled Wheel Loaders, which are currently undergoing pilot testing with select customers around the world. These advancements represent a significant leap forward in automating and optimizing operations in challenging environments. While these technologies are setting benchmarks internationally, we are excited about their upcoming introduction to the Indian market, anticipating significant impacts on efficiency and safety in operations.
Has your company adopted Industry 4.0 in your manufacturing operations, what benefits have you reaped by adopting Industry 4.0. Problems faced in Human-Machine Interface to implement Industry 4.0. How have you tackled problem of integrating legacy systems/software/machinery in your adoption of Industry 4.0.
We at Volvo CE have adopted the related practices of Industry 4.0 through the introduction of artificial intelligence, Internet of Things, and machine learning into its manufacturing process. These technologies improve productivity, efficiencies, and customization of goods with much ease. We address the challenges of integrating legacy systems and human-machine interfaces by investing in both our current employees and their continuous development. While the integration of outdated machinery with modern digital platforms can be challenging, we have effectively tackled this issue by investing in innovative software solutions. These solutions not only bridge the gap between old and new technologies but also provide real-time data monitoring to ensure seamless integration and functionality.
Future technology trends and how geared up is your company to make your machines more smart and intelligent.
Our company is heavily invested in the technologies that will drive the future of construction, such as electric-powered machinery, autonomous construction equipment, and smart telematics systems. For its part, Volvo aims to produce net zero-emission machines by 2040. Examples of Volvo’s advancement toward smarter and greener machinery can be seen in our electric compactors and excavators that we launched and displayed during EXCON 2023.
We are also strengthening our data analytics competencies, so with additional tooling and more real-time insights into machine performance, we will be better equipped to provide operators with the support they need to make informed decisions. By staying at the forefront of innovation, Volvo CE is poised to lead the development of smart, intelligent machinery in future.
