Leica Geosystems and Liebherr are deepening their long standing collaboration by bringing factory integrated machine control to Liebherr’s Generation 8 mobile and crawler excavators. Beginning this spring, Leica’s sensor chain will be installed as standard equipment directly on the production line, with initial deliveries expected soon after.
This move shifts machine control from an aftermarket add on to a factory configured core system. The integrated sensor chain forms the backbone of Liebherr’s onboard guidance architecture, supporting 2D machine control, weighing systems, and bucket fill assist functions. Operators will access 2D guidance directly through the Liebherr in cab display, eliminating the need for external monitors in standard configurations.
For contractors, this means reduced commissioning time, fewer third party installations, and less downtime between machine delivery and productive work.
Liebherr Generation 8 Platform Technical Overview and Control Architecture
Liebherr’s Generation 8 crawler excavators, including models such as the R 922, R 924, and R 926, are positioned in the roughly 22 to 26 ton operating weight class depending on configuration. These machines are designed for urban construction, utility work, and medium duty earthmoving.
Typical specifications for the R 924 crawler excavator include:
- Operating weight around 24 tons depending on undercarriage and attachment configuration.
- Engine output in the range of approximately 120 to 130 kW depending on emissions standard.
- Advanced electro hydraulic control systems for improved fuel efficiency and precision.
- Liebherr in house developed engines compliant with Stage V and Tier 4 Final standards.
Generation 8 machines introduced a redesigned operator environment, updated hydraulic management, and improved service accessibility. By embedding Leica’s sensor chain directly into this architecture, Liebherr aligns machine control with the machine’s native hydraulic and electronic systems rather than layering it on top.
The integrated 2D solution combines Liebherr’s operator interface logic with Leica Geosystems’ calibration and workflow environment. This unified system supports faster setup, more consistent sensor calibration, and improved repeatability for grade control tasks.
Optional 3D Machine Control with Dual GNSS and Leica MC1 Platform
While 2D machine control will be standard on most Generation 8 mobile and crawler excavators, customers can specify 3D ready or fully integrated 3D systems directly from the factory.
The 3D configuration includes:
- Dual GNSS antenna setups for precise position and heading data.
- Leica MC1 3D machine control platform.
- Semi automatic grading functions depending on configuration.
Ordering 3D ready machines ex factory allows contractors to future proof their fleet. Hardware provisions and wiring are integrated during assembly, enabling seamless upgrades without extended machine downtime or structural modifications later in the equipment lifecycle.
For fleets operating in infrastructure, road construction, and large scale earthworks, factory integrated 3D machine control reduces project risk by ensuring consistent positioning accuracy from day one.
Reduced Downtime and Streamlined Ownership Experience
A key operational advantage of factory integration is the elimination of post delivery installation. Traditionally, contractors would purchase base machines and then coordinate third party installation of sensors, GNSS antennas, control boxes, and displays.
With Leica’s sensor chain embedded at production, the machine arrives ready for commissioning.
This supports:
- Faster deployment on site.
- Reduced risk of installation errors.
- Single source support through coordinated Liebherr and Leica service channels.
According to Hexagon’s machine control division leadership, the objective is to simplify the ownership lifecycle from ordering and configuration to training and long term technical support.
About Liebherr
Liebherr is a global family owned technology group founded in 1949. The company operates in more than 50 countries and employs over 50,000 people worldwide. Its annual group turnover has exceeded €12 billion in recent years, with construction equipment representing a major share of revenue. Liebherr produces a broad range of earthmoving machines including crawler excavators, wheeled excavators, dozers, and mining equipment.
About Leica Geosystems
Leica Geosystems is part of Hexagon, a global leader in digital reality solutions and sensor technologies. Hexagon employs more than 20,000 people across approximately 50 countries and reports annual revenues in the range of €5 billion. Leica Geosystems is recognized for its expertise in GNSS positioning, total stations, laser scanning, and machine control systems used in construction, mining, and surveying.
