Freude stays forever Freude stays forever

The Future of Construction and Better Living Environment

5 min reading time

Residing in proximity to a construction site will no longer entail early morning disruptions caused by the clamor of revving engines, all thanks to the ongoing electrification of construction vehicles. Soon, operators will control machines through screens, fostering a safer and more tranquil working environment. As the industry progresses and edges closer to full automation, the prospect of machines autonomously excavating holes becomes increasingly plausible.

Video
Video

Calmer Living - experience true life quality


Embracing the sounds of birdsong while witnessing the emergence of a new shopping center redefines the urban experience. Construction sites, often marred by noise pollution, stand to undergo significant improvement through the adoption of batteries in lieu of traditional engines.

The initial focus of electrification is on two primary machines: diggers and loaders, commonly deployed in expansive projects such as constructing foundations, bridges, or excavating mines. Given their substantial size and inherent noise, this shift promises discernible benefits across entire cities. Leading companies like Volvo are already at the forefront of integrating these electric machines into mainstream usage.

Beyond the auditory enhancements, prioritizing the electrification of machinery aligns with paramount safety considerations. Operators will gain improved clarity in receiving instructions from site leaders, as communication among workers will flourish without the need to shout over the din of diesel engines. The act of driving these machines is poised to become more pleasant, eliminating the necessity for noise-canceling headphones. This transformation enables workers to stay more connected with the external environment, fostering heightened awareness and enjoyment of their work rather than a sense of isolation.




The air you breath in - is the cornerstone of your health


Persistent air quality issues on construction sites, exacerbated by the presence of diesel machines, remain a significant concern. This poses health risks for on-site workers and passersby who find themselves holding their breath while navigating through such areas. The introduction of electric vehicles emerges as a viable solution to address this pressing problem.

The positive impact of electric vehicles extends beyond individual health benefits to encompass environmental well-being. In confined spaces, such as indoor settings with mini excavators, reliance on ventilation systems to extract diesel from the air becomes a necessity. Transitioning these machines to electric power not only contributes to a cleaner environment but also enhances overall comfort for everyone involved.

Delving into the internal components of electric machines, the use of Li-ion batteries proves advantageous. These batteries boast durability, a longer lifespan, and reduced charging costs, contrasting with the ongoing expense of refueling diesel, especially in larger vehicles. The shift to electric not only promotes cleaner sites but also promises a more cost-effective investment for builders. Anticipated decreases in battery prices in the coming years further underscore the financial benefits, ensuring a greater return on investment for those opting for electric machines.


What does the future hold?

In the foreseeable future, the integration of screen displays could revolutionize the control of construction vehicles, offering an alternative to relying solely on eyesight. Enhancing productivity, unimpeded visibility of the surroundings becomes possible without the hindrance of dust and fumes covering windows. Companies like Cat are at the forefront, developing sensors capable of detecting people in the vicinity, while Liebherr is incorporating 360-degree cameras with bird's eye views, ushering in heightened safety standards for construction practices.

Looking ahead, the ongoing electrification and modernization of construction vehicles pave the way for task automation. Machines could potentially be programmed with specific parameters for activities such as digging holes or lifting materials, allowing operators to oversee tasks remotely while the machines execute them seamlessly and safely. The prospect of managing construction sites from the comfort of an office, with automated equipment handling physical labor in adverse weather conditions, becomes a realistic scenario.

Moreover, the shift towards fully electric linear actuators instead of hydraulic systems for large machine tools holds promise. This transition not only enhances the robustness of machines but also ensures a cleaner operation, eliminating concerns about leakage and the need for constant maintenance.

THE i4

Companies are gearing up for increased production of electric construction vehicles in the near future. According to a report by global research agencies, it is predicted that electric machines will comprise 750,000 construction vehicle sales annually by 2043. This significant shift is poised to be a game-changer for the construction industry, offering not only improved safety conditions with clearer communication and cleaner air for workers but also proving to be a prudent long-term business investment.