The machine is engineered to extend reach while maintaining the stability and hydraulic performance required for heavy demolition tools.
The new Volvo EC500HR replaced Collins鈥� EC380HR after three years of dependable service and has delivered increased reach, higher tool capacity, improved hydraulic efficiency, and an enhanced operator environment. With a 28m reach without extensions, increasing to 32m with interchangeable arms, it is one of the most advanced high-reach demolition excavators currently operating in the UK. Collins Demolition became the first company in the country to take delivery of this model, promptly deploying it to dismantle a former council building on a major project in Reading.
SMT GB will provide aftersales support for the first three years or 5,000 hours of the machine鈥檚 lifecycle as part of an extended driveline warranty. This includes the first 2,000 hours servicing including oils and filters. SMT GB also supplied Collins with operator familiarisation for quick onboarding, plus the APIs (application programming interfaces) for all their current machines to be integrated into their existing telematics systems.
鈥淲e first invested in an EC380HR in 2014 to support our demolition work,鈥� explains Scott Craddock, director of Collins Demolition. 鈥淚t performed exceptionally well, so in 2019 we replaced it with a new EC380HR, which again did not disappoint. This year, the new EC500HR was the obvious choice to meet increasing project demands and the need for greater reach and聽flexibility.鈥�
The EC500HR has been designed specifically for demanding demolition environments. Its structure and hydraulic system are optimised to handle heavy attachments while maintaining stability at height, enabling contractors to operate larger crushers or shears with聽confidence.
鈥淥ur operators value the ergonomic cab, intuitive controls, and excellent visibility, particularly the outstanding night lighting when working at height,鈥� adds Scott. 鈥淭he stability of the machine at height is one of its greatest advantages. It gives operators the confidence to work safely within the machine鈥檚 operating envelope and, when paired with a 2.8聽t tool, achieves the ideal balance of speed and pressure, delivering plenty of power at the tool tip to meet the demands of the聽job.鈥�
The Volvo Demolition Assist system provides real-time information on working range and machine stability, helping operators maintain safe operating conditions. Additional technologies such as Smart View with obstacle detection improve site awareness and help reduce the risk of incidents on demolition听蝉颈迟别蝉.听
The EC500HR benefits from engine pump optimisation, enabling up to 15% better fuel efficiency compared to previous generation models, and upgraded hydraulic lines for operational efficiency. The longer service intervals and durable component design aims to reduce whole-life environmental聽impact.聽