We are delivering fuel efficiency across all elements of our machines via our en?gines, systems, operator behaviour and future technologies while increasing the productivity for our customers. Hybrid technology is one part of this wider range of fuel saving solutions, says AM Muralidharan, Managing Director, Volvo India. Excerpts from the interview with Equipment India.

What is the market for excavators in the mining, quarrying, and dimensional stone segments?
The Indian construction equipment market has potential to grow six to seven times from total revenues of $3 billion in 2012 to $22.7 billion by 2020 and from over 60,000 units in 2012 to 330,000 in 2020. To realise this growth opportunity, the industry needs to have an integrated approach for addressing key customer requirements and forging strong partnerships with dealers and suppliers and building a strong manpower pipeline.

Some of the key enablers to drive the construction equipment industry will be the role of government in speeding up projects, financing of construction equipment and key role played by public-private-partnership in projects.

How big would the market for excavator equipment be in India?
The road construction equipment market is currently stands at an industry volume of 2,500 machines per year and Rs 20 lakh per machine.

What are the trends in the excavation sector?
The excavation sector has witnessed increased mechanisation with growing use of equipment such as pavers and com?pactors. Some of the latest equipment gaining popularity are higher capacity paver finishers, compactors and bitumen pressure distributors. Besides, the product features, product quality and after sales service for road construction equipment has increased considerably. Mechanisation is finally beginning to have a firm grip in the Indian roads sector and the time duration to finish projects is also reducing. But there has to be a constant upgrade of technologies along with introducing new technologies. Around the globe and specifically in India, Volvo CE is the leading solutions provider for buying dependable equipment that is backed by Volvo dealers with expert, local knowledge and the parts and service support that customers need. Our latest technologies include the wheel compactors with Tier III engines and electronic controlled pavers which ensure smoothness and high quality of roads.

Has the latest emission norms brought about any design changes in the product?
It is important to establish a new authority with required facilities for testing and certification of construction equipment for emission and safety norms. New facilities need to be created such as engine test labs, transmission labs, axle testing rig, vibration testing lab, hydraulic testing labs and all-weather simulation chamber.

It is important to develop a comprehensive road map for emission norms, in consultation with the industry, to ensure the timely investments by the industry. Environmental care is one of Volvo CE?s core values and Volvo CE is ensuring we meet all environmental standards set by the Government of India. Volvo CE will meet Tier III emission requirements and we also provide solutions for the most effective fleet management. Volvo CE takes a holistic approach to fuel efficiency. We are delivering fuel efficiency across all elements of our machines via our engines, systems, operator behaviour and future technologies while increasing the productivity for our customers. Hybrid technology is one part of this wider range of fuel-saving solutions.