The newly released machine builds upon the reputations of predecessors the G9138, G9190 VHP and G9220, yet has seen a boost in its overall quality with a SD130B Stage II common rail diesel engine supplied by Volvo. It also offers high torque at low revs, from a 211kW output with variable horsepower (VHP) technology as standard.

The HTE840S transmission, designed specifically for motor graders by Volvo, has eight speed forward gears and four speed reverse gears all with automatic shifting.

The engine is cooled by a thermostatically controlled, hydraulically driven fan, which can be reversed by flipping a switch in the cab for easy radiator fin cleaning.

Outside, the unit has an operating weight of 22.9t, and a 14in wide blade is standard.

The new G9290 is the first motor grader from SDLG in the heavy-duty size class. Its strength and capacity make it ideal for mining haul road maintenance, the company said.

SDLG said fine-grading capability was part of the new model as well. The line of graders has an asymmetrical drawbar ball stud that can be rotated 180° - keeping the drawbar in a horizontal position. It also features the OEM's circle drive system with five support shoes and non-greasing slide bushings to offer better grading, as well as an extended service life and easier maintenance.

The SDLG Blade Control System provides the G9290 with blade mobility, which can be performed from inside the cab. The machine's hydraulic lock bar has seven positions to enable blade positioning, extending from a 90° vertical position on both sides of the grader to a 21° downward ditch cleaning angle.

For those operations opting to use an attachment, but do not want to weld or cut attachments to fit, the new release's reliable frame comes factory-prepared to accept all types of attachment. The front frame was also designed with enough strength to acommodate the front attachment, the moldboard and the circle turn, while still providing optimal operator visibility.

The machine also features a ROPS/FOPS-certified cab for safety; it is fitted to the front frame of the G9290 to help reduce vibrations and heat from engine and transmission.

"The design of the G9290 provides excellent visibility for the operator to the front and the sides of the machine, with large windows to enhance all-round visibility. The sloping front frame provides excellent visibility to front objects. Inside the cab, the low efforts control levers are ergonomically laid out with ample adjustment possibilities to fit every operator's needs. The steering wheel pedestal is also adjustable for optimal comfort," the company said.

SDLG, which has been part of Volvo Construction Equipment since 2007, told MM that the new release would not be available in North America.