Liebherr at Pollutec: practical innovation in recycling and waste handling

A centrepiece of the exhibition will be the LR 636 G8 crawler loader, representing the eighth generation of Liebherr crawler loaders in the 21-tonne class. Powered by a 135 kW / 184 hp Liebherr diesel engine compliant with EU Stage V standards, the LR 636 G8 combines fuel efficiency with reduced emissions. Its hydrostatic travel drive ensures smooth power delivery and allows the machine to turn on the spot, making it exceptionally agile in confined recycling yards.

The LR 636 G8 is a true all-rounder for recycling environments: it sorts, compacts, loads, builds, and prepares the ground with ease. Its durable undercarriage and strong breakout force ensure reliable performance, even in demanding material-handling conditions. Inside the spacious cab, operators benefit from intuitive joystick controls, an integrated touchscreen display, and an ergonomic workspace designed for long shifts. A key feature for waste management, is the standard pressurised cab with an advanced air filtration system. An upgrade is the available protective ventilation system, which protects operators from dust and harmful particles a vital solution for the dust-laden environments typical of recycling and waste-handling facilities.

T 48-8s Telescopic Handler: Precision in Material Handling

Also on display will be the Liebherr T 48-8s telescopic handler, designed for heavy-duty industrial and recycling tasks. With a maximum lift capacity of 4.8 tonnes and a reach height of 8 metres, the T 48-8s combines strength and precision for loading, stacking, and transporting materials. Its continuously variable hydrostatic travel drive enables seamless transitions between forward and reverse movements, reducing wear and fuel consumption in stop-and-go operations that are common in recycling yards.

The T 48-8s is equipped with several intelligent assistance systems that support efficiency and safety. Load Moment Plus extends the load charts for heavier lifts, EcoMotion automatically reduces engine speed during light-load travel without sacrificing responsiveness, and Auto Hill Assist increases safety on inclines. The centrally positioned cab provides operators with 360° visibility, while ergonomic controls and easy access points simplify daily operation and maintenance. Powered by a Stage V-compliant diesel engine, the machine is also compatible with HVO and other second-generation biofuels, underscoring Liebherr’s commitment to sustainable machine operation.

Waste Handling Ready Machines

Both the LR 636 G8 and the T 48-8s can be configured as “waste handling ready” machines, with optimised cooling, specialised protection, and sealing for working in dusty, abrasive environments. These purpose-built adaptations enable Liebherr machines to handle everything from feeding crushers and sorting lines to stockpiling and compacting, offering operators robust solutions tailored to the challenges of modern waste management.

Safety, Sustainability, and Digitisation

Health, safety, and sustainability are central to Liebherr’s design approach. Pressurised cab systems with air filtration safeguard operators in challenging environments, while intelligent assistance tools reduce fatigue and improve efficiency in repetitive tasks. The compatibility of Liebherr machines with alternative fuels such as HVO further reduces CO₂ emissions without compromising performance.

At the same time, Liebherr continues to invest in digitalisation and system integration. Tools such as Liebherr Connect and software solutions in MyLiebherr, enable predictive maintenance, fuel monitoring, and fleet optimisation, helping customers to reduce downtime, cut costs, and extend machine life. With these solutions, Liebherr ensures that its equipment not only delivers high performance but also supports sustainable, future-proof operations.