Volvo CE, which claims top spot in the rankings of ADT suppliers, introduced a series of ADTs at bauma 2007, starting with its top-of-the-line A35E and A40E, both of which are now available with full suspension (FS) and automatic leveling. The A40E will be powered by Volvo's 16-liter engine with 12% more power (rated at 470 hp) and 19% more torque than its predecessor. The A35E uses Volvo's 12-liter engine. Volvo CE also will sell any E-series models without the full-suspension option; the company will offer the FS option only on its two largest models until it gauges market demand for the feature on the smaller E-Series ADTs. Overall, the seven models in the series offer capacities from 25 to 40 metric tons.

The A35E, A35E FS, A40E and A40E FS all feature a new, fully automatic, nine-speed adaptive transmission. According to the company, driveline shafts, planetary gears and bearings have been reinforced to cope with the higher torque produced by the larger engines. An optimized gear shifting pattern offers better overlap of ratios to give constant power transfer. These models also have new frames, axles and a new drop box with longitudinal differential and 100% lockup to reduce power loss and improve traction and fuel efficiency. The larger models are fitted with more powerful exhaust brakes and retarders. Volvo says the cooling system has been improved to the point where extra cooling capacity is not required in hot climates.

The trucks' FS designation refers to the installation of hydraulic cylinders at all wheel positions, replacing conventional rubber bushings. The FS system continually monitors the truck load and ground conditions and adjusts the suspension to suit prevailing conditions. Volvo CE claims the system allows a fully loaded truck to travel at speeds up to 35 mph while “floating” over rough surfaces, thus reducing stress on components and allowing operators to work much longer without being fatigued by vibration and jostling.

The A35E will feature new wet disc brakes for better stopping power, and the A40E is fitted with a new body designed for easier loading and more efficient dumping into hoppers or over berms. Options for both the FS-equipped and conventional models include a bolt-on light-materials kit that increases truck body volume when hauling low-density materials; over- and under-hung tailgate options; and heavy-duty wear plates.

For the time being, Volvo CE seems content to concede the 50-ton-payload ADT class to Moxy. As the company indicated during bauma, 50-ton trucks are most properly matched with 100-ton-class excavators, and Volvo CE's largest current model is the 70-ton EC700B LC. However, Volvo CE President Tony Helsham said that the company is not opposed to building larger hydraulic excavators, but did not offer any timeline for development and introduction of bigger units.