Hitachi and Volvo Join Forces to Accelerate Sustainable Construction Technologies

Electrification firm Hitachi Energy will work with Volvo Construction Equipment to develop advanced ways to decarbonize building projects going forward.

The non-exclusive memorandum of understanding (MoU) will partner the two companies to collaborate on deployment of zero-emission equipment at construction sites. The scope of the agreement includes joint work on business models, go‑to‑market approaches, and aftermarket and support considerations, supported by joint teams from both companies.

“Electrification is a game changer in the decarbonization puzzle, particularly for hard‑to‑abate environments such as construction sites,” said Niklas Persson, CEO of Grid Integration at Hitachi Energy, in a statement. “As construction operations become more electric and more complex, success depends less on individual technologies and more on system‑level integration, strong execution, and close collaboration with partners like Volvo CE who share our ambition to enable zero‑emission construction at scale.”

The initial focus of the collaboration will start with practical, plug-and-play approaches to decarbonizing construction operations. It also will aim to create a foundation for deeper technical engagement to explore advanced technologies such as connected machines, digital integration and expanded service offerings.

“Strategic partnerships such as this with Hitachi Energy are key to accelerating the transition to zero-emission construction,” said Melker Jernberg, President of Volvo CE. “By combining complementary expertise and delivering a complete, integrated solution, we are giving customers the confidence, security, and peace of mind they need to adopt emission-free operations today.”

Volvo Construction Equipment (VCE) has been shifting toward electrification in equipment and has a net-zero value chain goal by 2040. Among its zero-emission machinery lineup include excavators, wheel loaders and battery-powered articulated haulers.

VCE and Hitachi have worked with Skanska on electrification of quarry operations.

Hitachi Energy can deliver on-site power systems such as fuel cells and energy storage, among others. Its construction machinery group has expanded solar and hydro power while also reducing CO2 emissions through logistical and energy efficiency improvements.