Capital Equipment News June 2019

COVER STORY

The new Volvo EC200D is ideal for general-purpose applications – from road construction and building projects to agriculture, landscaping and utility work.

optional extras. This has significantly driven down the upfront cost of the machine. “We are looking at a substantial price difference compared with the EC210C,” says Vaughan. Do more with less fuel A key talking point on the new machine is the improved fuel efficiency – delivering up to 12% reduction in fuel consumption when compared with its predecessor. The intelligent ECO Mode optimises the hydraulic system to reduce loss of flow and pressure, without compromising digging power or swing torque. “The Volvo D5 engine, delivering high torque at low rpm, works in harmony with the optimised hydraulic system and the auto-idle function for the ultimate combination of performance and fuel efficiency,” explains Lance Mannix, GM Sales – Babcock’s equipment division. The operator has the ability to manually control flow to the hydraulics using the integrated work mode system. The operator can choose from a selection of work modes – I (Idle), F (Fine), G (General), H (Heavy) and P (Power max) mode – according to the demands of the task at hand. “With Volvo’s integrated work mode system, operators are able to choose the best mode to suit their working conditions for increased versatility,” says Mannix. To reduce waste through idling, the EC200D includes the automatic idling feature. When the machine’s controls are inactive for a preset amount of time, engine speed is reduced to idle, helping to reduce fuel consumption – and therefore running costs. Greater control Greater control over the machine not only improves fuel efficiency but also

cycle times for a more productive and profitable work shift. Most notably, the increased hydraulic flow makes it easier for the operator to improve the machine’s controllability, achieving accurate control in grading and combined operations. The operator can also expect smoother and easier movement when travelling and lifting simultaneously, as well as better grading quality from the harmonised boom and arm movement. Harmony and consistency are also evident inside the Volvo Cab. The new I-ECU monitor, for example, displays all necessary information, helping the operator stay confident and in control over the excavator at all times. “For effortless adjustment, the controls are ergonomically positioned and integrated into the keypad. Boasting all-around visibility, the spacious Volvo Cab also features an adjustable seat and ample leg room – because a comfortable operator is a productive operator,” says Mannix. It’s not only these functions that ensure the EC200D is ready to work. The D-Series excavator is durable by design, with ultimate strength and wear resistance. All components are tested and proven to provide long-lasting performance, good return on investment and high resale value. For optimum machine weight and maximum total cost of ownership, the newly designed boom and arm is the perfect choice for general-purpose applications. Trusted to deliver At the core of Babcock’s eminence in southern Africa is its unparalleled aftermarket support, very much in line with the company’s ‘trusted to deliver’ mantra. To ensure customers get maximum value out of their capital equipment investments, Babcock offers

a suite of aftermarket services, including tailor-made service contracts, trade-ins and equipment rebuilds, among others. “Over the past two and half years, we made a strategic decision to build the business on the back of our aftermarket service strategy. We have worked hard to elevate our aftermarket offering,” says Vaughan. One of the key interventions in recent years has been the complete redesign of the service and maintenance contract offering to offer tailor-made contracts suited to each customer’s operating and economic profile. Proof of the success of this strategy is the recent growth of the company’s service/ maintenance contracts portfolio. To help close the financing gap for its customers in southern Africa, Babcock now makes use of Volvo Financial Services (VFS), the global captive finance arm of the Volvo Group, following the launch of Volvo Financial Services South Africa some two years ago. Officially launched in November 2017, VFS South Africa provides financial services to customers of the Volvo Group’s truck and bus brands operating as part of Volvo Group Southern Africa, including UD Trucks, Volvo Bus, Volvo Trucks and Volvo Construction Equipment. VFS offers a full range of integrated financial solutions to dealers and customers at large. “VFS delivers services directly experience. It is the first finance choice for Volvo Group products. While VFS is a global organisation, it leverages our local expertise to ensure our southern African customers’ unique business requirements are addressed through a tailored, competitive financing solution,” concludes Vaughan. b to customers through dealerships, so customers enjoy a one-stop shop

CAPITAL EQUIPMENT NEWS JUNE 2019 6