Dimitrov Krishnan From Volvo Construction Equipment shares insights on Next-Gen, Sustainable & Competitive Construction Equipment
Localised production, increased digital competence, and improved reliability of service are our strategies to create value throughout the lifecycle of our machines.
Dimitrov Krishnan, Managing Director
What are Volvo’s strategies to be competitive in the fast growing CE industry of India?
Over the last few years, the Indian construction equipment market has seen a major boom owing to the country's substantial infrastructure projects, supportive policies and increasing urbanisation. Currently, the industry stands at approximately 1.36 lakh units, and is expected to hit 2X by the year 2030. The industry has not just grown in size but has also undergone a major transformation. This year, the shift to CEV Stage V level of emission, has further pushed manufacturers to use cleaner and more efficient technologies.At Volvo CE India, localisation of production, increased digital competence and improved reliability of the service are strategies to create value throughout the lifecycle of the machine. Demand is expanding both geographically and across segments, with mining, road development, and urban construction emerging as the key drivers of growth. Sustainability, localisation, fuel efficiency, and after-sales excellence will be the next phase of competitiveness. We have worked tremendously to integrate these factors into our operations as a reliable partner in building the country’s next-generation infrastructure.
How is your company expanding its global footprint, strengthening exports, and integrating international technologies?
Our aim is to position India as a key market for Volvo Construction Equipment and to gradually strengthen our export vertical. A growing share of our export output now serves customers in the Middle East, Africa, and Southeast Asia. Through stronger localisation and partnerships with Indian suppliers, we’re integrating advanced technologies like Independent Metering Valve Technology and high-efficiency engines to boost productivity and fuel efficiency. Our SD120 Compactor, recently designed and developed in India for global markets, reflects this capability.By combining global innovation with India-centric solutions, we’re creating a future-ready, competitive, and agile organisation - one that is truly delivering ‘Make in India, for the World'.
What innovations in energy efficiency, recycling, and waste utilisation is your company implementing?
At Volvo CE India, achieving sustainability is part of our business strategy. We are continuously innovating in the areas of product design, manufacturing, and operations to contribute towards India’s net-zero goal. Our EC550E excavator, for instance, delivers 22% higher fuel efficiency and lower emissions than the previous models.Our Bengaluru facility operates on solar power and has reduced energy consumption by nearly 30% in five years. We have invested in re-manufacturing programs to increase the lifespan of components, lessen wastage, and implement circular economy behavior.
The construction sector can accelerate India’s sustainability journey by adopting fuel-efficient machines, electric machines, and hybrid machines, enhancing its fleet utilisation rates through telematics, and recycling its materials. We are proud to be the first to drive this change and collaborate with our customers and partners to create a cleaner, more energy-efficient ecosystem of infrastructure.
What initiatives has your organization undertaken to promote inclusivity, diversity, and skill development within its workforce?
Our initiative focuses on upskilling operators, technicians, and dealer service teams in diagnostics, safety, and digital competencies. Through collaborations with our dealer partners, we have established training hubs and service centers to enhance local employment. Our flagship Iron Women program, launched this year, is the first-of-its-kind initiative in India’s construction equipment sector, training underprivileged women as equipment operators and technicians through hands-on experience, jobsite exposure, and certification. In addition, our strong association with the Infrastructure Equipment Skill Council (IESC) helps us align with national skilling priorities and contribute to creating a future-ready talent ecosystem for India’s infrastructure sector.
What will Volvo highlight at EXCON 2025?
Volvo Construction Equipment will spotlight its strengths across Mining, Compaction, Urban Infrastructure, and Quarry applications. We will showcase a lineup of India-centric solutions that reflect our commitment to cutting-edge technology, safety, sustainability, and fuel efficiency. Key highlights will include India’s most advanced 5+ ton Wheel Loader and a new introduction in the Medium Excavator range, underscoring our focus on delivering high-performance, productive, and environmentally responsible equipment tailored to the needs of the Indian market.
Published on:
03 December 2025
Published in: NBM&CW DECEMBER 2025
Share:
We Value Your Comment
