LEGO Technic Model is Now a Real Volvo Prototype Construction Vehicle

Credit: Volvo

For the fist time ever, a LEGO Technic model is now a real machine. Take a look at the Volvo LX03. It is a fully autonomous, battery-electric prototype construction vehicle. This real-life vehicle gained inspiration from the LEGO Technic 42081 Volvo Concept Wheel Loader ZEUX.

It all started in 2016, when the LEGO Group and Volvo collaborated on the ZEUX concept. What resulted was this incredible LEGO Technic set. Once only a futuristic concept model, it is now a reality.

…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.

– Niels Henrik Horsted, Head of Product for LEGO Technic

The Volvo LX03 prototype is part of Volvo’s commitment to reduce carbon emissions and improve sustainability. As an electric vehicle it has zero emissions, low-noise, and can run up to a maximum of eight hours.

It is the first real-life example of a self-learning wheel loader. It has the ability to interact with humans, make decisions, and perform dangerous or repeated tasks. With this vehicle on site, less humans can be in harm’s way.

The vehicle starts out at weighing 5-tons, but as part of a modular building process, it can be made larger or smaller which just a couple of changes to the production process.

Take a look at this video which further explains the collaboration between Volvo and the LEGO Group.

The Volvo LX03 prototype is not yet available commercially. But, the insights learned here will be used for future projects.

What an exciting project and collaboration! What other LEGO sets do you think will eventually turn into real-life vehicles? Let us know in the comments!