Volvo had two of the new machines available for show attendees to watch in action and climb up, over and into. 

The larger of the two working models shown was the Volvo FB3800C Feller Buncher, a forty ton class, full-swing-radius unit capable of handling the largest and heaviest of forestry harvesting operations. The other was the zero-tail-swing radius Volvo FBR2800C equipped with the optional heavy-duty harvester/processor boom and arm, a configuration that would be ideal for any cut-to-length operation or selective harvesting or thinning. Rounding out the line-up will be the minimum tail-swing radius Volvo FB2800C slated for introduction to the North American forest industry in December 2008.  

All three models are powered by Volvo’s industry leading, fuel efficient diesel engines with V-ACT and feature Volvo enhanced hydraulics. All models can be ordered with either a heavy-duty feller buncher boom, arm and hydraulic assemblies or with heavy-duty harvester-processors boom, arm and hydraulic assemblies. Operator safety is another key highlight as all models will feature the new Volvo Care Cab. As with all Volvo Forestry Solutions machines, they are fully optimized for maximum efficiency on the job site.

According to Ken Kelly, Volvo Construction Equipment’s Forestry Solutions Director for the Americas, and Serge Bergeron, in charge of marketing support for these units in North America, both machines were a hit at the show. When asked why, Kelly was quick to point out. “It is no secret that we are experiencing slow market conditions here in North America at present. Many forestry equipment manufacturers are either pulling back or holding off any new development. That is one of the reasons Volvo was pleased to be one of the only manufacturers introducing something new at this time. It’s just another example of Volvo’s commitment to the forest industry.” 

Bergeron noted that, “we wanted to be able to give both our dealers and customers something to be excited about. They are hearing enough bad news these days. We wanted to give them some good news. And from the reaction here at the show, it appears we have done that.”

Already a leading global player in forestry-related equipment and solutions, the introduction of these new models will further enhance Volvo CE’s position in this important segment of the heavy equipment industry. Volvo Construction Equipment’s senior management has in the past emphasized the company’s intention to ‘get deeper into the forest’ and broaden its range of timber handling products. This introduction adds credence to VCE’s commitment and demonstrates their dedication to providing enhanced, optimized, productive and safe forest harvesting solutions.

Details of all three Volvo Feller Buncher/Harvester models are now available through the North American Volvo Construction Equipment dealer network and will be available to global customers in early 2009.