Volvo CE Targets Jobsite Safety with Collision Mitigation for Wheel Loaders

February 1, 2023

Ryan Gehm

Volvo Group announced its vision for zero accidents long ago and has launched several advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS) for its commercial trucks in recent years, including the second generation of its Volvo Active Driver Assist with improved automatic emergency braking. Now it’s the Construction Equipment unit’s turn to take a further step toward zero accidents at jobsites with the launch of its Collision Mitigation System (CMS) for Volvo wheel loaders.

CMS for wheel loaders is an automatic braking feature that supports operator response and helps reduce the risk or consequences of collision when working in reverse. It functions only when the machine is in reverse and driving at speeds between 3-15 km/h (1.9-9.3 mph), regardless of what gear it is in. Wheel loaders spend an average of 40-50% of their time being driven in reverse, according to Volvo Construction Equipment.

The system automatically applies the service brakes for 2-3 seconds when an obstacle is detected, slowing down the machine prior to impact or bringing it to a complete stop. The initiation of braking alerts the operator to intervene. The company claims that the system is the first of its kind from a construction-equipment OEM.

“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, the company’s global product manager for wheel loaders. “This new Collision Mitigation System is one important part of our work to reduce the risk of accidents and help fulfill our commitment towards zero accidents.”

Requiring a Radar Detect System to be fitted, it works as an additional system to the existing range of features, options and site services provided by Volvo CE for its line of wheel loaders. For stockpiling operations, the system will remember the last slope the machine climbed, allowing operators to reverse down a pile without activating it. It also can be temporarily deactivated for specific site conditions.

The patent-pending Collision Mitigation System for Volvo wheel loaders was developed in-house and is a factory-fit option currently available on the L110H/L120H equipped with OptiShift, L150H, L180H, L220H, L260H and L200H High Lift wheel loaders. Volvo CE says the system is available in all markets around the world.