Volvo CE and Metzner in first all-electric deconstruction project

Photo: Volvo CE

A fleet of Volvo CE electric machines, supported by Volvo electric trucks, was deployed to dismantle three buildings covering nearly 25,000 m³ as part of the €500 million, 200,000 m² development.

The project used compact, mid-size and grid-connected machines for tasks including selective gutting, concrete cutting, material handling and transport.

Power was supplied via a custom on-site transformer with direct grid connection to certified renewable electricity, enabling simultaneous charging and continuous supply for grid-connected equipment.

Around 12,800 tons of construction waste were processed on site, with 96% recycled into raw materials for future use. Indoors, compact machines worked alongside a Husqvarna demolition robot, eliminating emissions and reducing the need for air filtration.

Externally, material was dismantled and loaded into an electric crusher and screening plant, with Volvo electric trucks transporting it off-site.

“Our transformation is no longer a vision, but a reality,” said Therese Schmitz-Hillebrecht, Head of Market Area Central Europe at Volvo CE. “We don’t just develop electric construction machines – we accompany our partners on the path to an emission-free future. The fact that companies like Metzner and Siemens are joining us on this path is a strong sign.” 

Michael Metzner, Managing Director of Metzner Recycling, added: “The fact that we have now taken the first major step towards an all-electric, low emission dismantling site as a technical standard is a huge success for us – the Metzner team – and our clients. Electric equipment could unlock urban projects currently held back by noise and pollution concerns.” 

Christian Franz, Head of Sustainability at Siemens Real Estate, said the deconstruction project had a 96% recycling rate which is “testament to our commitment to achieving excellence in sustainability.” 

Volvo CE said the project provides a blueprint for future urban construction and demolition projects where emissions and noise are key considerations.

Other contributors included Volvo Trucks, Robert Aebi, Husqvarna Construction, Spie and Erlanger Stadtwerke.