 | | The box. |  |  | | Big wheel hubs for the electric motors. |  | | Extending counterweight improves stability. |  | | Unusual pivoting door. |  | | It does look futuristic. |
| This is one in a series of concept models which are Volvo's vision of future construction machines.
The Gryphin is a wheel loader and the main design idea is that it will have fully independent wheels which have noiseless electric wheel motors and a zero emission electric engine. This will also allow it to ‘climb’ to some extent. The cab has large areas of glass that will tint automatically in bright light or heat up in cold weather.
The main functions of the machine can be managed automatically with an extendible counterweight improving stability by 20%. The fully independent suspension will allow the machine to be lowered for travelling at speed or raised for uneven ground.
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 is no particular detail underneath the model but the rubber tyres are mounted on interesting hubs which represent the electric drive motors. The arches over the wheels are plastic.
The cab has fine plastic lattice work in the windscreen and the interior is crisp with joysticks being the main control. There are plastic mirrors on the outside.
The sleekly designed body is metal and there are no obvious lights detailed.
The bucket raising mechanism is simply formed and the bucket casting is similarly plain.
Features
The independent suspension has been modelled well and works effectively with significant movement possible.
Steering is achieved by articulating the body and an angle of approximately 45° can be obtained.
The cab door opens up in an unusual pivoting movement.
At the rear the adjustable counterweight can be extended and retracted.
The bucket raising mechanism has two cylinders and it is not entirely clear how the third linkage is powered but then this is a futuristic machine after all. The range of movement is fine although when lifting the bucket very high the lift cylinder piston pops out of the jacket.
Quality
The model is well made with paint that seems to have a metallic finish. There are almost no graphics.
Price
It is expensive given the size and detail.
Overall
This is an interesting model and it is somewhat difficult to judge it against the real machine as it does not exist. It is good quality with interesting features and the high price probably reflects the limited edition status. It is recommended.
Footnotes
The model appeared at the Nuremberg Toy Fair in 2011 and was one of three concept models including the Centaur and Sfinx. |
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|  | | This is not a particularly big machine but it sits high on the suspension. |  | | Lifting height is quite good. |  | | Profile view. |  | | Simple underside. |  | | The Gryphin cannot reach high enough to load the Centaur concept articulated dump truck. |
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