Electrification continues to be widely discussed across the construction equipment sector as manufacturers and equipment users look at ways to reduce emissions and improve efficiency on construction sites.
The following article reflects the independent analysis of consultant Robert Droogleever of abcg and includes market data from Off-Highway Research. It has not been commissioned by the CEA but highlights several of the practical considerations currently being discussed across the industry, including infrastructure, machine performance and market readiness.
Data referenced in the article suggests battery-electric machines still represent a relatively small proportion of equipment sales in Europe and the United States, with adoption varying depending on machine type and application. In China, uptake is moving faster in some segments where operating conditions and energy infrastructure support electrified equipment.
While electric machines are already being used in a range of applications, adoption across the sector continues to develop at different speeds depending on the operating environment and the needs of equipment owners and contractors.
Viki Bell, CEO of the CEA (Construction Equipment Association) said:
“Electrification is an important part of the discussion around reducing emissions from construction equipment, but it is only one of several technologies being explored by the sector. Our members are working on a range of solutions including electric machines, hydrogen, alternative fuels and improvements in diesel efficiency.
“The CEA continues to work with government and industry partners to support the adoption of lower-emission technologies, remove barriers where possible and ensure that the transition is practical for manufacturers, contractors and equipment owners.”
At the same time, major manufacturers continue to invest in electric technology as part of broader powertrain strategies.
Speaking at ConExpo-Con/Agg 2026, Volvo CE’s CEO, Melker Jernberg, said, “We are taking a multi-technology approach, with battery-electric machines alongside internal combustion engines, grid-connected solutions and other technologies.
There is actually more interest in electric machines from customers than you might believe. It’s a challenge the industry needs to address, and we believe electrification will continue to play an important role as the technology develops.”
Jernberg pointed to the company’s new L120 electric wheeled loader as an example, noting that customer interest remains strong and that improvements in energy efficiency and machine performance continue to support the development of electric equipment.
Read the independent analysis by Robert Droogleever here:
https://www.constructionbriefing.com/8114627.article
Read the Volvo CE article in Construction Briefing here:
https://www.constructionbriefing.com/en-GB/news/more-interest-than-you-might-believe-in-electric-machines-says-volvo-ces-ceo/8116461.article
