The new R 915 Compact, R 917 Compact and R 920 Compact Generation 8 crawler excavator models presented at bauma 2025 are now available in North America.
Developed and manufactured by Liebherr-France SAS in Colmar, the new models expand Liebherr’s compact excavator portfolio and have been designed to meet the evolving demands of modern construction sites. Positioned in the strategically important 16.5 to 22-ton class, the Generation 8 compact range delivers a comprehensive solution for earthmoving, road construction, utility installation and urban construction projects, according to the company.
The R 915 Compact G8, R 917 Compact G8 and R 920 Compact G8 crawler excavators feature the new emCAB operator’s cab, which offers a modern, ergonomic working environment centered on operating efficiency. At its heart is the INTUSI concept, which enables intuitive, customizable operation and allows the operator quick access to the most important machine functions. The intelligent layout inside the operator’s cab makes all relevant devices and the joysticks optimally accessible and intuitive to operative. This provides more comfort and reduces fatigue in daily work. The high-precision electric joysticks are ergonomically designed and ensure smooth, precise control of machine movements, even in challenging applications like lifting work. The interaction between human and machine has been simplified, improving the efficiency of the entire work cycle, according to Liebherr.
The R 917 Compact G8 crawler excavator represents a completely new model. This machine shows how Liebherr tackles the burgeoning requirements of urban construction sites, the company said. An especially small tail swing radius of 5.5 ft. makes efficient working possible even in tight spaces while at the same time ensuring greater safety in use. Because of the compact design, operators benefit from a high degree of flexibility along with optimal mobility on the construction site, as they can easily switch between different operating locations. The R 917 Compact G8 rounds off the compact excavator product range and, in terms of performance, occupies a position between the R 915 Compact G8 and the R 920 Compact G8. It is especially well suited to challenging lifting work and pipeline construction. With its high performance and flexibility, the R 917 Compact G8 is ideal for use on urban construction sites, where tight spaces are frequently encountered, according to Liebherr.
Because of the balanced and well-rounded machine design and a wide choice of attachments, these compact excavators are suitable for a multitude of applications and can carry out several tasks simultaneously, said Liebherr. With numerous attachments available and the hydraulic tools, these are genuinely multi-functional machines that ensure optimal organisation and simplify coordination on the construction site, as they enable a smaller number of machines to be used. This flexibility allows companies to improve their operational efficiency and increase their overall profitability, according to the company.
In an environment that constantly demands more productivity, the new generation offers performance that is ideally tailored to the requirements of modern construction sites, said Liebherr. Optimized engine and hydraulic performance ensure quick, smooth working processes and guarantees high digging forces, torque and traction in daily use. The R 915 Compact G8 achieves 90 kW/122 hp, the R 917 Compact G8 offers 100 kW/136 hp, and the R 920 Compact G8 completes the model range with 110 kW/150 hp. Optimised kinematics reduce the need to reposition the machine, improve precision and contribute to maximum productivity on the construction site, according to Liebherr.
The new R 915 Compact, R 917 Compact and R 920 Compact are designed to perform in demanding environments, particularly urban areas and construction sites where space is limited, said Liebherr. Their compact dimensions, combined with high levels of performance, deliver the agility and power needed to maximize productivity. By combining a compact footprint with strong digging performance, the machines achieve fast cycle times and excellent operating efficiency across a wide range of applications. The reduced tail swing radius, particularly on the R 915 Compact and R 917 Compact, further enhances maneuverability, making it easier to work safely and efficiently in confined spaces, according to Liebherr.
The new compact excavators are engineered for long-term durability combining a robust machine design with high-quality components developed for intensive use, said Liebherr. This ensures reliable performance and dependable operation, even in demanding working environments. Ease of maintenance also has been a key focus, with service points readily accessible from ground level. This simplifies routine maintenance tasks, helping to minimize downtime and maximize machine availability. The result is a machine that not only delivers reliable performance throughout its working life but also helps reduce operating costs by increasing uptime and improving overall efficiency, according to Liebherr.
Because of Liebherr’s digital solutions, operators and fleet managers can precisely monitor machine performance in real time and optimise daily operations through services such as MyLiebherr Maintenance and Performance, said Liebherr. Intelligent fleet management provides greater transparency, supports informed decision-making and helps maximize profitability. The new compact crawler excavators are designed to support long-term technological development, featuring an open architecture that is ready for future assistance systems and digital innovations. By combining advanced connectivity with a future-ready machine platform, Liebherr is already addressing the evolving requirements of tomorrow’s construction industry, according to the company.
