Since 1988, SVAB has improved the working environment for machine operators through ergonomic solutions and advanced technology. Follow our journey through the decades as we develop world-leading joysticks and control systems for excavators. Discover how we’ve evolved and how we continue to shape the future of machine control.
SVAB Hydraulik AB was founded in 1988 by Kent Bengtsson, and during the first decade, we primarily worked in the forklift industry. We developed forklift fingertip controls and mini steering wheels, two systems that made forklift steering more ergonomic, improved precision, and significantly enhanced the operator environment. Improving and refining the operator’s working environment has been our focus from the start.
In the 2000s, we made a major breakthrough in the excavator industry starting with a project for a New Holland’s LB115 backhoe loader. We were tasked with controlling all hydraulics in the machine, which featured a tiltrotator for increased precision.
Using our forklift control system technique, we developed a separate tiltrotator control system, which became the start of our RT Controller. We replaced the original levers with thumb- and finger-operated rollers, removed the need of foot pedals and glued-on buttons.
This innovation revolutionized the industry, leading to a tenfold revenue increase and the expansion of our Hallsberg facilities. Committed to making life easier for operators, we also developed the GP Controller, which allowed control of even more functions via the joysticks, such as wheels and track steering.
To meet growing demand on functions and ergonomics, we introduced the L8 grip, now recognized as the world leader in excavator and tiltrotator control, known for its best in class ergonomics and multifunctionality.
The 2010s were a game changing decade for us, marked by the launch of the MACS platform, a modular MAchine Control System designed with tiltrotators first in mind. The system contains several valve control units and a highly user-friendly color touchscreen.
A major success came when Volvo adopted MACS for their motor graders, making us an approved supplier. The system including L8 joysticks replaced mechanical levers, greatly improving efficiency and visibility.
Another success was the release of Steelwrist tiltrotator control system, called XCG2, which was based on the MACS platform. In 2016, we joined TerraTech Group, becoming a sister company to Steelwrist and unlocking new opportunities for growth and collaboration.
In the 2020s, we launched ToolRec, a system that automates tool recognition in excavators. ToolRec uses unique IDs to recognize attachments and adjust settings, minimizing errors by ensuring accurate tool data, crucial for precision systems. This also optimizes tiltrotator performance for better efficiency and lower fuel consumption.
In 2024, we introduced the A9 joystick grip, the successor to the L8, with haptic feedback and heating for enhanced operator comfort. We also launched the S2 and B1 handles primarily for the Asian market, along with the QiO unit, which simplifies joystick integration and serves as the base for our next-generation tiltrotator control systems.
Looking ahead, our focus remains on creating the perfect operator environment. We are committed to developing solutions that prioritize both operator comfort and environmental sustainability. Our goal is to ensure that every machine operator feels in control, comfortable, and truly enjoys their work. As we move forward, we will continue innovating and finding new ways to make this vision a reality.
