 | | The box. |  |  | | Lattice structure of the boom and stick is unusual. |  | | Counterweight extended at the rear. |  | | Reach is good. |  | | Nicely detailed cab. |  | | On tip toes. |
| This is one in a series of concept models which are Volvo's vision of future construction machines.
The Sfinx is an excavator and is driven by electric motors. The power source is a fuel cell which is able to move as an active counterweight and compensate for the forces on the machine making it more stable and efficient. It has four independent tracks which have variable contact area for different ground conditions or even for high speed travel.
The cab is removable so that it can become a remote workstation with the excavator unit working at distance, perhaps in hazardous conditions. Another innovation is the lattice structure of the boom which reduces the material content.
Packaging
The model comes in a Volvo branded box with a window and is held between two snap fit clear plastic formers. Although Motorart list the model, the Motorart name does not appear on the box or model. There were no defects or missing parts on the review model.
An interesting information sheet is provided and this describes the design ideas for the concept machine and shows the features of the model.
Detail
There are four independent track assemblies which are plainly detailed and the tracks are rubber with a tread pattern.
The body is a sleek design and is made of metal with paint that has a metallic finish. The Volvo name is embossed on both sides of the body.
The operator’s cab is plastic but well detailed inside with pedals, joysticks and computer screen.
The boom and stick are metal and modelled with lattice structures and the cylinder jackets have the same paint finish as the rest of the model which is good to see. The rivets used at the pivot points are small and unobtrusive.
The bucket is a simple metal casting.
Features
The tracks roll but are stiff as they are rubber, and they are fully adjustable and configurable like the concept machine except there is no steering mechanism. Some weird-looking poses can be produced.
It rotates and has the large movable section at the rear to act as a variable counterweight.
The cab is fully detachable although it is not fitted to an extending boom like the concept machine.
The boom, stick and bucket all move like a conventional model with a good range of movement.
Quality
The model is well made with the paintwork being very good and there are no graphics.
Price
As with the other Volvo concept models it is relatively expensive.
Overall
In many ways this is the most unusual looking of the concept models with the tracks being particularly distinctive. The quality of the build is very good which means it is highly recommended whilst noting that the price level is high.
Footnotes
The model appeared at the Nuremberg Toy Fair in 2011 and was one of three concept models including the Centaur and Gryphin. |
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|  | | "It's an excavator Jim, but not as we know it...". |  | | Underside view. |  | | Profile view. |  | | A weird pose. |  | | The cab is detachable for remote control applications such as digging in hazardous environments. |
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