Liebherr rolled out one of its new Generation 8 wheel loaders at World of Concrete in January, and Equipment World got a closer look at the L 546, which entered the U.S. market last year.
Chris Trampush, Liebherr product manager, gave us a tour of the midsize loader, which you can watch in the video above.
The L 546 comes with a variety of upgrades over the Generation 6 model.
The loader features more power, faster cycle times, new technology, as well as new lift arms for a 20% increase in breakout force. It is the largest of the new midsize Gen 8 models, which also include the L 526 and L 538.
The L 546 runs on a 185-horsepower Tier 4 Final engine that uses diesel particulate filter, diesel oxidation catalyst and selective catalytic reduction to meet emission requirements.
It has a bucket capacity of 3.9 cubic yards, which can go up to 9.8 cubic yards, and a tipping load of 24,273 pounds. It weighs 33,973 pounds, depending on the configuration.
Trampush says popular uses for the loader include moving mulch and gravel, road work, city projects and rock quarries. Liebherr is taking orders for the machine, with expected delivery for 2025 due to high demand.
New technology for the loader includes optional active personnel detection, which alerts the operator when near obstacles and people behind the machine and then automatically reduces speed to bring the loader to a stop. The system also emits visual and sound warnings and distinguishes between people and objects.
The optional Skyview 360-degree camera system shows the loader’s surroundings on a separate monitor. The loaders also have automatic load weighing with Truck Payload Assist.
Other improvements include automatic engine braking in travel drive for less brake wear, and continued tractive force control with limited slip differential to prevent wheels from slipping and to reduce tire wear. An optional hydraulic quick coupler with integrated, automatic third and fourth hydraulic circuit allows for changing attachments from the cab. A year free of LiDAT, Liebherr’s telematics system, comes with the new loaders.
The cab features adjustable steering wheel and seat that is vibration-dampened and various storage areas. The hood and windows are designed for increased visibility. Optional joystick steering is integrated into the seat, and the loader can be ordered without a steering wheel.
Check out the video for a closer look at Liebherr’s new L 546.
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