A new electric asphalt paver from Swiss manufacturer Ammann can lay down 1,200 tonnes of asphalt per day, matching the output of its diesel predecessors while eliminating much of the noise and emissions they produce. The eABG 4820, powered by a Volvo Penta electric powertrain, represents one of the largest electric pavers currently available, designed to meet growing demand for quieter and cleaner construction equipment.
The machine’s 270-kilowatt-hour battery pack, arranged in three units, enables it to operate for an entire work shift without intermediate charging. At full capacity, it can lay 500 tonnes of asphalt per hour, though output drops to 350–450 tonnes if charging stops are excluded. The battery can be fully replenished in 1.5 hours using a 150 kW CCS2 charger or over 12 hours with 22 kW AC charging.
Beyond its efficiency, the electric paver addresses two major drawbacks of diesel equipment: noise and emissions. Traditional asphalt pavers are notorious for their loud operation, often disrupting nearby communities. The eABG 4820 operates at significantly lower noise levels, making it better suited for urban environments where emissions and sound pollution are major concerns. According to the manufacturer, it produces up to 70% less carbon dioxide than comparable diesel models.
Electric powertrains also reduce maintenance requirements. Diesel engines have numerous moving parts prone to wear, leading to higher upkeep costs. The eABG 4820, with fewer components, eliminates many of these tasks. However, construction firms will need to adapt by installing charging infrastructure at depots and job sites to keep the machines operational.
Philipp Bramer, head of Ammann’s electric paver development team, emphasized the machine’s integrated design. “The electric driveline doesn’t just power the machine,” he said. “It communicates seamlessly with the hydraulics. Simultaneously, the intelligent control system makes sure that the system supplies exactly the right amount of energy to the machine.” This approach improves efficiency while maintaining performance comparable to diesel models.
The paver’s 6.5-meter width makes it versatile for most projects, including those in emission-sensitive areas. While diesel equipment remains dominant, the shift toward electrification in construction aligns with broader trends in reducing environmental impact. The eABG 4820 demonstrates that electric alternatives can now match, or even exceed, the productivity of traditional machinery.
