Volvo Construction Equipment (Volvo CE) has added a short-swing model to its latest generation of excavators with the launch of the new ECR255. The 25-ton excavator will make its tradeshow debut at CONEXPO-CON/AGG 2026 in March.
The compact design, strong performance and operational efficiency of the ECR255 make it a smart choice for contractors working in confined spaces and demanding environments — from urban construction to utility and infrastructure projects.
The ECR255 replaces the previous generation’s ECR235E, providing a 7% increase in lifting capacity and a 10% reduction in fuel consumption. It joins the large ECR355, mid-size ECR145 and compact ECR90 excavator (which was also introduced on Thursday) as short-swing models in Volvo CE’s latest excavator series.
“This launch means Volvo now offers a comprehensive range of short-swing models in our new generation of excavators, giving customers the flexibility to choose the right machine for their application without compromise,” said Jaesu Kim, Chief Project Manager, Volvo CE. “It’s designed to help customers do more in confined spaces thanks to its reduced tail swing, increased lifting capability, lower fuel consumption and industry-leading operator environment.”
The ECR255 news came at a press conference Thursday where Volvo CE previewed its CONEXPO plans. The event also included the launch of three new compact excavators and the North American introduction of two next-gen wheeled excavator models and the new-gen A60 articulated dump truck.
Impressive efficiency, strength and precision
The new Volvo ECR255 excavator’s advanced electro-hydraulic control system includes a smart cooling system and engine speed regulation for higher torque at a lower rpm. This means smoother, more responsive operation, less opportunity for the loss of energy, and up to 10% less fuel consumption compared to the ECR235E. Features like auto-idling, automatic engine shutdown and customizable work modes also help keep operating costs in check without compromising performance.
The ECR255 excavator delivers a 7% increase in lifting capacity because of its redesigned structure and heavier counterweight, making it a more versatile machine choice for contractors. With Volvo Active Control, its boom and bucket movements can be automated for faster, more accurate digging and grading, helping operators complete tasks up to 45% faster and reducing fatigue. The floating dozer blade and the ability to set boundary limits and boom and swing priority functions make the ECR255 well-suited for complex work on confined jobsites.
A focus on uptime, safety and operator experience
Long service intervals — including 1,000-hour engine oil and 3,000-hour hydraulic oil changes — minimize downtime and reduce maintenance costs. Service points are grouped for easy access, with ground-level refilling and quick-drain ports. Volvo’s standard telematics and optional advanced telematics provide real-time machine insights and predictive maintenance support for maximum uptime.
For ultimate site safety, customers can add Volvo Smart View with Obstacle Detection, which gives operators 360-degree visibility of the machine’s surroundings and the ability to distinguish between objects and humans.
Operators will enjoy the new excavator’s spacious cab, which is about 20% bigger than most short-swing excavator cabs. It’s quiet, comfortable and supports productivity with upgrades like a larger, higher-resolution Volvo Co-Pilot display, more ways to customize machine settings and improved heating/cooling performance. Modern conveniences like Bluetooth® connectivity, wireless phone charging and a heating/cooling compartment for food and beverages ensure operator satisfaction.
Learn more about the new ECR255 crawler excavator at URL and see it in-person by visiting Volvo CE in Booth F24029 on the Festival Grounds at CONEXPO, March 3–7, 2026, in Las Vegas.
Key specifications:
Volvo ECR255 Short-Swing Excavator>
Operating weight
51,590–64,000 lbs. / 23,400–29,030 kg
Gross power
173 hp / 129 kW
. . . at engine speed
1,800 rpm
Bucket capacity
0.47–1.88 yd3 / 0.36–1.44 m3
Lifting capacity, along undercarriage>
16,623 lbs. / 7,540 kg
. . . at reach height
20 ft. & 5 ft. / 6 m & 1.5 m
Max. digging reach
31’ 2” / 9.510 mm
Max. digging depth
20; 10 / 6.350 mm
Breakout force, SAE J1179 (Normal)
28,101 lbf / 125 kN
Breakout force, SAE J1179 (Boost)
29,675 lbf / 132 kN
Tearout force, SAE J1179 (Normal)
26,303 lbf / 117 kN
Tearout force, SAE J1179 (Boost)
27,876 lbf / 124 kN
Overall width
9’ 10” / 3 010 mm
Tail swing radius
7’ 7” / 2 310 mm