Electrification Sparks Growth
Traditionally reliant on diesel, the construction equipment industry is beginning to embrace electrification. Among all the categories of off-highway equipment, electric wheel loaders have emerged as one of the most promising segments in 2023 and 2024. Though electric cars and buses have captured the public imagination, the rise of electric construction machinery—particularly wheel loaders—signals a shift that could redefine project execution across India.
According to global forecasts, 4,535 full-electric battery electric wheel loaders were registered in 2023, with a jump to over 12,000 expected in 2024. The Asia-Pacific region, led by China, is taking the lead in manufacturing, but India is fast catching up. Industry experts estimate the global electric wheel loader market will surpass 40,000 units by 2030, with India poised to emerge as one of the largest growth drivers.
“As of 2024, the Indian wheel loader market is valued at approximately $1.1 billion,” says Nischal Mehrotra, Sr.Vice President – Sales and Marketing, LiuGong India. “This growth is driven by strong demand across construction, mining, and industrial sectors. Electrification is the next logical step, particularly given the environmental and economic benefits.”
These benefits include zero fuel consumption, reduced emissions, lower noise, and reduced operating costs. LiuGong, a market leader in India, has commercially launched its electric wheel loader model 856HE MAX. With a 423 kWh lithium iron phosphate battery, it delivers up to 11.7 hours of operation in light-duty conditions and supports fast charging within 1.7 hours. This model features a fully electric drivetrain, energy recovery systems, and intelligent battery management—enabling a smoother, greener operation.
Environmental advantages
Electric wheel loaders bring a host of environmental and economic benefits to the construction industry. The transition from traditional diesel-powered machines to electric equipment significantly reduces greenhouse gas emissions. This is especially crucial as India works towards its ambitious net-zero emission goals, set for 2070.
Moreover, electric wheel loaders contribute to lowering the carbon footprint of construction projects. These machines operate more efficiently, without the need for costly and polluting fuel, making them an attractive option for project owners looking to reduce their long-term operating expenses.
One of the key advantages of electric wheel loaders is their ability to reduce noise pollution. In bustling urban environments, construction noise is a significant issue, especially in areas near residential zones. The quieter operation of electric loaders helps address this problem, making them ideal for city construction projects, particularly in densely populated areas.
Adoption of electric machines
The enthusiasm for electric machines is not limited to LiuGong. SDLG, a Volvo Group company, has made headlines by inaugurating a new manufacturing facility in Peenya, Bengaluru, which now produces electric wheel loaders locally. Their battery-electric model, the L956HEV, introduced at Bauma Conexpo 2023, has started working in various industries across India under an equipment-as-a-service model. According to Surat Mehta, Head of SDLG Business in India, “We’re seeing strong interest in electric loaders from ports, batching plants, and industrial units. The shift to electric aligns with our long-term vision to offer sustainable, low-emission solutions.”
This growing shift towards electrification is not just a short-term trend. As the demand for electric machinery continues to rise, OEMs are investing heavily in research and development. From the development of better batteries to the creation of smarter digital solutions for machine monitoring and maintenance, the industry is poised for an electric transformation.
The growth of electric wheel loaders in India is underpinned by broader infrastructure programmes like Bharatmala, Sagarmala, and the National Infrastructure Pipeline. These initiatives, which focus on upgrading the country’s roadways, ports, and overall infrastructure, require high-capacity, high-productivity machines—and electric loaders are proving they can deliver.
Recently, in line with “Harit Sagar” Green Port Guidelines, Deendayal Port Authority (DPA) has taken another significant step towards sustainable port operations by supporting the deployment of four SDLG L956HEV electric wheel loaders by Swayam Shipping Services. DPA has actively facilitated the integration of green technologies, extending full collaboration for the installation of an electric vehicle charging station inside the dock area. This will ensure the seamless operation of these electric loaders and encourage further adoption of clean energy solutions in port activities.