Volvo CE Brings Next-Gen Wheeled Excavators to North America with Industry-First Retractable Access Ladder

• Volvo CE introduces next-generation EWR150 and EWR170 wheeled excavators to North America, debuting the EWR170 at CONEXPO-CON/AGG 2026.

• Both models offer increased lifting capacity, nearly 2 feet shorter front swing radius, and 10% more power for the EWR150.

• Industry-first electronically retractable access ladder enhances safe and easy cab access, with machine movement disabled when ladder is down.

• Operator comfort is improved with redesigned cabs, touchscreen controls, and advanced safety features including 360-degree camera views.

• Customization options include multiple arm lengths, optional four-wheel steering, and compatibility with various attachments, supported by Volvo's Lifetime Frame and Structure Warranty.

Volvo Construction Equipment (Volvo CE) has added the first wheeled models to its latest excavator series with the North American introduction of the EWR150 and EWR170. The 18-ton EWR170 will make its tradeshow debut at CONEXPO-CON/AGG 2026 in March.

• Volvo EWR150 and EWR170 wheeled excavators feature a refreshed design, higher lifting capacity and reduced front swing radius.

• Improvements include 10% more power for the EWR150 and an industry-first electronically retractable access ladder.

• Both models are now available for order in North America, and the EWR170 will debut at CONEXPO.

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These medium-sized wheeled excavators offer increased lifting capacity and reach compared to the previous generation models. In addition to each model’s already class-leading short tail swing radius, their front swing radii are now nearly 2 feet shorter, making them even better choices for confined spaces.

“We introduced the original EWR150 and EWR170 in North America in 2018, when wheeled excavators were still relatively new here. Contractors and government fleets are increasingly realizing the benefits of their mobility and maneuverability, making them leaders in their classes,” said John Waldron, product manager of wheeled excavators at Volvo CE. “I think customers will love the updates we’ve made because they’re even more comfortable, productive and safe than before.”

The announcement that the two next-gen wheeled excavators are now available for order in North America came at a press conference Thursday where Volvo CE previewed its CONEXPO plans . They were previously introduced in Europe.

The event also included the global launch of three new compact excavators and a new midsize crawler excavator, and the North American introduction of the new-gen A60 articulated dump truck.

More reach, power and customization options 

Wider lift cylinders give the updated EWR150 and EWR170 more lifting capacity over the front of the machine, while reach is extended by a longer two-piece boom.

The next-gen EWR150 provides nearly 10% more power with its new 154-horsepower engine, equipping it for tough tasks and matching the existing power of the EWR170. This contributes to faster cycle times, increased digging force and the ability to handle larger attachments. Swing torque is also increased by 10%, enabling more controlled and efficient machine movements. 

The EWR150 and EWR170 can be customized with three different arm lengths each, an outrigger or blade added to the front or rear, and an optional 9-foot-wide axle for additional stability when lifting over the side.

Both are compatible with a wide range of attachments, including buckets and breakers. For hydraulic attachments, the X1 and X3 auxiliary lines are now larger to reduce pressure losses, and flow on the X3 has increased from 18.5 to 31.7 gallons/minute, providing the pressure needed to operate a Steelwrist® tiltrotator. A third line (X4) is available as an option.

The EWR150 and EWR170 can travel up to 21.7 mph. Four-wheel steering will be available as an option later in Q1, which is an industry first for this class and dramatically reduces turn radius.

The ultimate operator experience

As part of the latest Volvo excavator series, the EWR150 and EWR170 include fully redesigned cabs for operator comfort and convenience. Highlights include improved visibility, low noise levels, ergonomic controls, more storage options, wireless phone charging, USB connections, automatic in-cab lights and an optional air compressor for cleaning.

A new 12.8-inch touchscreen integrated into the right-hand console presents essential information and offers easy control over camera settings, climate control and more. More seat choices are now available, and redesigned armrests contain fewer switches. The operator’s experience can be further customized with joystick preferences and electronically adjustable heated side mirrors.

New and improved safety features

An integrated rearview camera and right-side camera improve visibility, as does the optional Volvo Smart View with a high-definition, 360-degree real-time view of machine surroundings. A range of light options improve visibility in low light conditions, including new LEDs that are seamlessly integrated into the counterweight.

The revamped EWR150 and EWR170 wheeled excavators feature industry-first electronically retractable ladders that swing down from a recess in the side of the machines for safe and easy cab access. With this patented technology, the machine cannot swing or move while the ladder is down.

Four conveniently located anchor points — two at the front and two at the back — allow the machines to be easily and securely restrained for safe transport. As with all Volvo CE excavators, these updated models are backed by the Volvo Lifetime Frame and Structure Warranty, which covers the frame, boom and arm for the entire initial ownership period.