Leica Geosystems, part of Hexagon, and Liebherr have announced an expansion of their collaboration, with Leica Geosystems’ sensor chain to be factory-integrated across Liebherr’s Generation 8 mobile and crawler excavators as standard. Production is scheduled to begin this spring, with first deliveries expected shortly thereafter.
The integrated sensor chain will serve as the foundation for Liebherr’s machine control guidance systems, including weighing systems and bucket fill assist, while delivering 2D machine control directly through the Liebherr in-cab display. A 3D machine control system from Leica Geosystems is optionally available, either fully integrated via the Liebherr factories or as a later aftermarket upgrade.
Most of the new Generation 8 mobile and crawler excavators will feature Leica Geosystems’ 2D machine control as standard, eliminating the need for aftermarket installation after purchase and reducing machine downtime. The solution combines Liebherr’s operator interface with Leica Geosystems’ 2D user experience for setup and calibration.
Customers can also specify their Generation 8 machines with 3D-ready or full 3D machine control options, including semi-automatic features, directly from the factory. These include dual GNSS configurations and Leica MC1 3D technology. Ordering 3D-ready ex-factory is intended to ensure seamless future upgrades without additional machine downtime.
“By integrating Leica Geosystems’ technology at the factory level, together with Liebherr, we are delivering a streamlined ownership experience, from ordering and commissioning to operator training and long-term support, while giving contractors confidence that their machines are ready for today’s jobs and tomorrow’s demands,” says Martin Verdurmen, president, machine control division, Hexagon.
Image: Liebherr
