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CONSTRUCTION WORLD
NOVEMBER
2015
ased on the Volvo Group’s
strategy of providing inno-
vative solutions to markets
where they are actively
involved, Volvo Construction
Equipment has over the years
advanced solutions that have had an impact
on traditional values by contributing to the
lowering of equipment life-cycle costs to the
benefit of their customers. The introduc-
tion of the Gz range of loaders into the less
regulated markets such as Africa, Middle East
and Asia will give the brand added impetus
without detracting from the erstwhile repu-
tation which they have already established in
those areas.
“We welcome the introduction of this new
model into the local market as it will give us
the opportunity of competing favourably in
areas that have previously been price sensi-
tive but not detracting from the quality and
technical innovations that are the hallmark of
the Volvo brand,” commented Dave Vaughan,
the sales director for equipment, of Babcock,
the Southern Africa distributor of Volvo CE.
Each machine is built with an ideal-
ly-matched all-Volvo powertrain, designed
to work together in perfect harmony for opti-
mized performance. Equipped with powerful
Volvo engines, the D6E (L60Gz and L90Gz) and
the D7E (L120Gz) with power ranging from
114 kW to 179 kW respectively, these engines
offer high torque at low rpm to ensure low
fuel consumption. Volvo’s unique eco pedal
COVER STORY
also helps to guarantee fuel consumption
is kept to a minimum, applying mechanical
push-back force when engine rpm is about to
exceed the economic operating range. This
encourages the driver to ease off the throttle
thus reducing fuel consumption.
Increased productivity
Productivity is the key for this new range of
wheel loaders, built for an efficient, smooth
performance. Fully Automatic Power Shift
ensures optimal operation by adjusting
machine gears in line with parameters
including engine and travel speed, for
comfortable gear changes and fast cycle
times. Oil-cooled, wet disc brakes on the
front and rear axles deliver superior breaking
performance for smooth control and a long
service life.
One hundred percent differential locks on
the front axle ensure outstanding traction in
slippery conditions, and axle oil circula-
tion allows the oil to flow and cool inside
the axle – protecting components and
increasing brake service life. The rear axle is
supported on maintenance-free cradles and
includes lubricated-for-life bearings thereby
reducing servicing costs and increasing
machine uptime.
Built to last
These machines are built to last, and the
durable Volvo designed Z-bar linkage provides
high breakout forces for strong, powerful
digging and complete bucket fill in even the
hardest materials. This is combined with load-
sensing hydraulics that supplies power only
when needed, lowering fuel consumption.
Bucket pins are double sealed to keep grease
inside the bearing and dirt out, ensuring
long pin and bearing life, and the automatic
bucket leveller and boom kick-out functions
accurately stop the bucket and linkage in
adjustable, pre-selected positions.
A major contributor to sustained high
productivity levels is operator comfort which
in the L60Gz, L90Gz and L120Gz cabs has been
redefined. On offer is the industry-leading,
spacious ROPS/FOPS Volvo cab which
includes ergonomically placed controls, a tilt-
able steering wheel and vibration damping.
The operator is granted easy access
to the cab via a three-point access ladder
with anti-slip steps and sturdy handrails.
Slim cab pillars and large expanses of glass
surrounding the cab create a productive and
comfortable operating environment.
Air is filtered through an easy-to-replace
pre-filter that separates coarser dust and
particles before passing through the indus-
try-leading main filter, allowing 90% of cab
air to be recirculated for continuous
dust removal.
To ensure the operator has all the neces-
sary information and diagnostics for optimal
performance, the Volvo Contronics system
continuously monitors and records machine
operation in real-time. Information including
fuel levels and warning messages is relayed
via the display in the cab.
Servicing
From a servicing point of view, the L60Gz,
L90Gz and L120Gz are built to ensure quick
and easy service and maintenance checks.
Excellent access to the engine compartment
and ground level access to the filters allow
regular checks to be performed faster.
“Babcock has a national footprint
of branches and service dealers, all well
equipped to provide unparalleled support to
the new range of loaders in keeping with the
customer focussed approach which Babcock
has developed since 2000 when we were
appointed the sole distributor for Volvo CE in
Southern Africa.
“Our track record has shown that we have
increased sales year on year over the last
15 years so the introduction of the Gz series
The L60Gz, L90Gz and L120Gz wheel loaders from
Volvo Construction Equipment (Volvo CE) come
from a long line of productive, fuel efficient wheel
loaders. Building on a legendary reputation dating
back to 1954, these machines are equipped with
proven, advanced technology designed to deliver
superior lifting and breakout forces in even the
toughest of conditions.
“Our track record has shown that we have increased sales
year on year over the last 15 years so the introduction of the
Gz series will enable us to enhance our performance further.”
VOLVO G-SERIES
WHEEL LOADERS
built for increased productivity