50 “We are already developing mobile power units and battery containers that effectively decouple the machine from the fixed energy infrastructure. These units can be deployed on-site to provide DC charging for our vehicles, but they also offer AC outputs through standard inlets, enabling them to power other site equipment when needed. This creates a more versatile energy ecosystem, particularly in environments where grid access is limited or intermittent.” In this space, Volvo CE now offers the PU500 mobile charging unit. As well as enabling off-grid charging, it supports fast charging of machines and vehicles where grid infrastructure is present but inadequate, while the PU500 can recharge itself using cheaper off-peak power at up to 86 kW. A containerised system, the PU500 includes a 540 kWh battery pack made up of 6 x 90 kWh Cube batteries, a 240 kW CCS2 DC charger and a 63 A socket to support equipment with higher power demands. Measuring 3 m x 2.5 m x 2.6 m and weighing 7600 kg, it features holes for forklift tines on two sides, making it easier to move around a worksite. Basic monitoring and control can be effected through the My Equipment app (see below), with fleet management functionality provided through the CareTrack telematics system. Fast charging is the operation that puts most thermal stress on batteries, so thermal management systems (TMSs) have to handle that effectively, while not being over-designed and potentially inefficient when they are not working so hard. Volvo CE takes an integrated approach to TMSs, providing the right heating and cooling to all key components in the machine, including the operator’s cabin. In BEVs, the TMS is designed to recover and reuse waste heat wherever possible. “Our approach focuses on keeping energy consumption low, reducing packaging space and managing costs. By designing cooling and heating loops that work together across different subsystems, we avoid the need for multiple standalone circuits. This results in a more compact, efficient and costeffective solution. Ultimately, this gives customers improved comfort, better machine reliability, and a system that supports energy efficient and sustainable operation.” Software and telematics Software plays a central role in how Volvo CE manages the balance between performance, energy consumption and runtime. For the machine operator, this is presented as working modes such as Eco, Standard and Boost, which adjust parameters including the availability of peak power, acceleration response, hydraulic performance and the power drawn by auxiliaries. These modes allow operators to prioritise runtime when they need to, or access higher performance for demanding tasks. “Beyond user selectable modes, our control software also dynamically manages power based on battery state of charge, temperature, duty cycle and predicted energy requirements. This is to ensure that the machine maintains consistent performance while maximising runtime and protecting battery health.” Electrified machines are prolific generators of operational information that allow OEMs and customers to develop a deep understanding of how they perform and endure in the real world. Volvo CE collects machine and battery data through its own telematic system, Nedjimi explains. “With e-mobility, we naturally gain access to far more detailed information than with traditional machines, like energy use, charging behavior, temperature patterns and operating loads,” he says. “We use these data to better understand realworld operating costs and guide future design decisions. And this same data foundation is what allows us to support our customers more effectively.” Building on this, the company launched a web-based app called My Equipment to put productivity and energy efficiency in operators’ hands, which should enhance their experience and, more broadly, strengthen the electric transformation. The app provides vital information on machine hours, status, location and power consumption. “Launched primarily for electric machines, it provides real peace of mind for operators, or indeed anyone on site, needing to monitor battery charging status remotely – thanks also to notifications alerting them if there is a disruption to charging. It has been designed to ensure that they get the most out of their electric construction equipment.” January/February 2026 | E-Mobility Engineering A general purpose electric crawler excavator, the EC230 has a 650 V pack built with Volvo’s Cube system up to a capacity of 450 kWh
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