Swedish construction equipment maker Volvo CE has built a self-learning wheel loader that is autonomous and can interact with humans. The Volvo LX03 is a prototype that is expected to feed into future construction systems.

The LX03 is also believed to be the first time that a LEGO Technic model has been used to prototype a life size industrial machine.

The prototype LX03 was built by a team of engineers and programmers from Volvo CE sites in Eskilstuna, Sweden and Konz, Germany, in collaboration with the design team in Gothenburg, Sweden. It is a 5-ton wheel loader that has been developed as a modular concept, with the capability of being made larger or smaller with just one or two changes to the manufacturing process. It also shares its driveline with the L25 Electric, making it a zero emission, low-noise machine with a runtime of up to eight hours depending on its application. 

What started out as an exciting project between designers and engineers at the two companies, to explore the potential for future construction, evolved over time with the help of a team of children into the successful launch of the 42081 LEGO Technic Concept Wheel Loader ZEUX. 

The LEGO Group’s Head of Product for LEGO Technic, Niels Henrik Horsted said: “Our two companies have enjoyed an extremely successful partnership over the years in which we have collaborated on several LEGO Technic models. But this is the first time we are making a real machine based on a model and not the other way around – and that is what makes this a truly unique project.”

Melker Jernberg, President of Volvo CE, said: “We need to transform the construction industry with smart and more sustainable solutions that will have an impact on a global scale. The unveiling of the LX03 prototype today represents just that – and is testament to the incredible expertise of our engineers and our united commitment towards positive change. Together with the LEGO Group, we are pushing the boundaries of both technology and imagination and the result is beyond anything the world has seen before.”

Lars Stenqvist, Chief Technology Officer of Volvo Group, said: “As transport and infrastructure leaders we have a vital role to play in taking action on climate change and stepping up the pace of innovation needed to deliver on emissions targets. We believe in working with driven and creative partners who, like us, are focused on making innovation real and moving beyond just words.”