Volvo Construction Equipment (Volvo CE) has expanded its product range in China with the launch of the new L105 wheel loader at bauma China 2012.

Capable of sporting a bucket with maximum 4.5 m³ capacity, the 18 tonne category L105 will be manufactured in China and has been specifically developed to suit the demands of Chinese customers.

Volvo CE president Pat Olney said the L105 would complement its existing product range aimed at the Chinese market, which includes both the Volvo and SDLG brands.

“The dual brand strategy helps us appeal to the largest customer base,” Mr Olney said. “Last year, we sold 36,455 Volvo and SDLG wheel loaders and excavators in China, meaning we hold the number one position in the market for these machines.

“Volvo is positioned as a premium brand in China. The L105 has been designed to be a reliable machine, but the technology level of the product has been adapted to the market. It won’t be as fuel efficient as a L110 made in Sweden, for example, but it is still backed by Volvo’s full support and service network. It’s not just a streamlined version of a Volvo wheel loader, and draws on the know-how and experience of both the Volvo and SDLG brands.”