Volvo EW160 Wheel excavators tech specs

Overview

The Volvo EW160 (EW160D) (2012–2016) is a 17.2-ton wheel excavator aimed at contractors, municipalities, and utility teams that need full-size excavation capability with better road mobility than a crawler excavator. Its 115 kilowatt Volvo D6H engine, 0.76 cubic meter bucket, 6.2 m digging depth, and 9.8 m reach make it suitable for drainage, utility installation, road maintenance, trenching, loading, and urban excavation.

Expert rating: 5 stars

Performance & Efficiency

The 115 kilowatt Volvo D6H engine supports a hydraulic pump flow of 270 liters per minute at a relief pressure of 325 bar. Its 112 kN bucket digging force and 77 kN arm crowding force provide practical breakout performance for trenching, drainage, and loading, while the 10 rpm swing speed supports steady excavation cycles. A 100 kN drawbar pull and 35-degree gradeability help the machine work across sloped sites, and the 35 kph travel speed reduces transport delays during municipal and roadside work.

In Comparison

Cat M318: Provides higher stated engine power and bucket digging force, along with a slightly higher maximum travel speed.
Volvo EW160: Offers a slightly longer digging reach, a closely matched operating weight, and practical road mobility for utility and municipal applications.

Final Verdict

Rated 5 stars, the Volvo EW160 is a capable wheel excavator within the AED 200,000–350,000 range. Its long working reach, strong hydraulic system, road speed, and manageable 17.2-ton operating weight make it a practical choice for drainage, utilities, road maintenance, and urban excavation.