Volvo CE’s new safety system

Volvo CE’s Collision Mitigation System is available globally

Volvo Construction Equipment (Volvo CE) has launched a Collision Mitigation System for its wheeled loaders, an automatic braking feature that supports operator response and helps reduce the risk of collision when working in reverse.

Volvo CE says that this is the first system of its kind from an original equipment manufacturer. It assists operators while working in reverse and automatically applies service brakes when the wheeled loader approaches any obstacle, alerting the operator to take further action.

It is estimated that wheeled loaders spend an average of 40-50% of their time being driven in reverse.

Volvo CE stated that this is not designed to replace safe operator behaviour but is a tool to enhance jobsite safety.

“We at Volvo CE continue to proactively develop intelligent solutions which not only mitigate the consequences of accidents but strive to avoid them altogether,” said Lars Eriksson, global product manager for wheel loaders at Volvo CE.

“This new Collision Mitigation System is one important part of our work to reduce the risk of accidents and help fulfil our commitment towards zero accidents.”

The system works by identifying when there is a risk of collision and responding by automatically activating the brakes for two-three seconds to slow the machine down prior to impact or bring it to a stop to avoid it. This initiation of the braking alerts the operator to intervene.

The Collision Mitigation System is a tool to help increase safety

The system will remember the last slope the machine climbed, allowing operators to reverse down a pile without activating it. It can also be temporarily deactivated for specific site conditions.

Functioning only when the wheeled loader is in reverse and driving at speeds of between 3-15 km/h (1.86-9.32mp/h), no matter what gear it is in, it serves as a facilitator to jobsite safety.

Developed in-house by Volvo CE, the patent-pending Collision Mitigation System is a factory-fit option currently available on the L110H/L120H equipped with OptiShift, L150H, L180H, L220H, L260H and L200H High Lift wheel loaders.

Requiring a Radar Detect System to be fitted, it works as an additional system to the existing wide range of features, options and site services provided by Volvo CE for its line of wheeled loaders

The Collision Mitigation System will be available in all markets around the world.