1. Electrification at Scale: As electrification moves from prototypes to production, what are the key systems-level challenges in making electric construction equipment truly scalable?

The off-highway sector is working to reduce carbon emissions in response to climate change. With a wide range of equipment and use cases and different market standards, a single solution will not be sufficient. Flexible, tailored strategies and openness to different technologies are essential.

Progress relies on access to suitable products, reliable infrastructure, and a competitive total cost of ownership. As battery technology improves and costs drop, electric equipment is being adopted more widely. Adoption is expected to grow, especially as regulations tighten. Electrification also opens up new business opportunities in low-emission zones, work indoors, and sustainability-driven projects, helping companies stay competitive.

However, several challenges remain. Battery performance still limits operating hours, making higher energy density and faster charging critical. Remote job sites often lack charging infrastructure, highlighting the need for scalable solutions such as fast chargers or battery swapping systems. Electric components must also withstand harsh conditions such as dust, heat, and vibrations—all without compromising reliability.

To help customers navigate these challenges and make informed decisions, education and hands-on experience are key. Demo programs, training sessions, and pilot projects allow customers to test electric machines in real-world conditions, offering valuable insights into performance and cost savings. Furthermore, clear communication of the long-term savings in fuel and maintenance costs—along with the environmental benefits—will help demonstrate the true value of electrification.

Lastly, while upfront costs are higher—particularly for batteries—long-term savings in fuel and maintenance can make electrification a smart investment. In parallel, software and connectivity play an increasingly important role in unlocking the full potential of electric machines, enabling predictive maintenance, performance monitoring, and more efficient fleet management.

2. The Architecture Behind the Shift: What does it take to design a robust, efficient, and future-proof electromobility system for off-highway applications?

Developing a robust electromobility system for off-highway applications requires a flexible and practical approach, designed to handle tough environments, diverse workloads, and fluctuating power and runtime demands. The system must incorporate a modular design, allowing for an adaptable architecture that supports multiple energy sources and can scale across various applications.

Durability is a critical factor, as the system must deliver reliable performance in harsh conditions such as dust, vibration, moisture, and extreme temperatures. Energy efficiency is also essential, with smart controls and regenerative braking technology working together to extend uptime and minimize energy waste. Additionally, interoperability is key, ensuring the system is compatible with other platforms for easier upgrades and future flexibility.

Digital integration plays a crucial role as well, leveraging telematics and diagnostics to monitor system performance, predict maintenance needs, and reduce downtime. Infrastructure support is another key consideration, with solutions for remote charging and energy supply designed to ensure continuous operation in off-grid environments. Finally, safety and compliance with evolving standards are essential to ensure the protection of both operators and equipment.

The ultimate goal is to strike the right balance between performance, cost, and sustainability, creating systems that are not only effective today but also adaptable for future innovations.

3. Balancing Performance & Efficiency: How do you ensure that electrified machines meet the performance expectations of conventional diesel models while delivering sustainability gains?

In my view, ensuring that electrified machines meet the performance standards of conventional diesel models while also delivering sustainability gains requires an optimized approach. Electric drivetrains naturally provide strong, instant torque and smooth control, which helps match or even exceed diesel performance in many applications. They also improve the operator experience—offering quieter operation, reduced vibration, and more precise control, which can lead to higher productivity and less fatigue over long shifts.

From a customer’s point of view, performance is measured by key factors such as cycle times, breakout force, and uptime. Electric machines can deliver consistent, high power output, ensuring that these critical performance metrics are met or surpassed. The reduction in downtime, thanks to fewer moving parts and lower maintenance needs, directly impacts productivity and overall cost-effectiveness. Additionally, the fast response times and sustained power delivery make electric machines capable of achieving faster cycle times and greater breakout force, all while reducing the environmental footprint.

To maximize efficiency, advanced energy management systems intelligently regulate power usage, ensuring consistent output without unnecessary energy waste.

Battery capacity is tailored to the specific demands of each application, balancing runtime, weight, and cost. Effective thermal management systems are also essential, maintaining optimal temperatures for batteries and motors, which in turn supports efficiency and extends component life, especially in demanding or harsh environments.

Regenerative technologies, such as energy recovery during braking, further enhance efficiency without compromising performance. By designing machines specifically to meet operational needs, manufacturers can ensure that electric equipment delivers reliable, high-level performance while significantly lowering emissions and long-term operating costs.

4. Integration with Digital & Autonomous Tech: How does electromobility architecture intersect with emerging technologies like automation, connectivity, and digital twin environments?

I would say that electromobility naturally complements emerging technologies like automation, connectivity, and digital twins. This is because electric systems are already software-driven, making them ideal platforms for autonomous control and smart energy management.

Precise electric drivetrains support automated functions, while connectivity through telematics enables real-time monitoring, remote updates, and predictive maintenance. Digital twin technology adds another layer by simulating machine performance, optimizing efficiency, and reducing downtime.

These capabilities also scale across entire fleets and job sites—allowing for more coordinated operations, smarter energy use, and proactive maintenance planning across the whole operation. From a customer perspective, this means that not only individual machines benefit from these technologies, but the entire operation can be optimized. Fleet managers can monitor multiple machines simultaneously, ensuring they are performing at peak efficiency, minimizing downtime, and reducing overall operating costs. Additionally, the ability to plan maintenance proactively across the entire fleet can further enhance uptime and productivity, leading to a more cost effective operation on the job site.

Together, these technologies create a smarter, more connected, and more efficient off-highway ecosystem, boosting productivity while supporting long-term sustainability goals.

5. A Glimpse into Your Session at the Off-Highway Evolution Summit 2025: What can attendees look forward to learning from your presentation—and why is now a crucial moment for electromobility in the off-highway sector?

From my presentation, attendees will learn how Volvo Construction Equipment is driving innovation with both battery-electric and improved conventional machines, supporting a cleaner, more efficient transition to electrification. I will showcase real-world examples that highlight the benefits of electrification, such as improved efficiency, reduced emissions, and enhanced sustainability.

Now is a crucial moment for electromobility in the off-highway sector. With growing regulatory pressure, accelerating technology maturity, and increasing customer demand, the opportunity—and responsibility—to act is clear. Moving forward will require strong cross-industry collaboration, and I hope to inspire a shared commitment to building a more sustainable and electrified future for construction.