Since 2016, XPower has stood for a technically sophisticated machine concept: power-split drive, tried-and-tested components and a clear focus on efficiency and performance. “This anniversary shows that we have taken the right path with the XPower machine concept,” says Dr Pfab. “We have a product, or rather a family of machines, that is constantly being further developed and is at the forefront of technology, and whose quality, robustness and cost-effectiveness impress our customers. We have thus achieved the goals we set ourselves during development: to combine technology, quality and cost-effectiveness in a single product. This leads to success – for Liebherr and equally for our partners and end-users.”
From idea to success story
The starting point for the development of the new wheel loaders was the 2+2 drive system of the time. This offered advantages in the cyclical applications typical for wheel loaders and was very efficient compared to conventional torque converter drives. At the same time, the aim was to overcome its disadvantages during road travel and longer cycles. This ambition gave rise to the idea for a new drive technology. With the power-split XPower drive system, which combines hydrostatic and -mechanical drive in a single machine, short loading cycles and long travel distances can now be optimally combined.
Following intensive test operations, some lasting several years, across a wide range of industries, Liebherr began series production of the large wheel loaders in 2016. “We have now delivered more than 10,000 XPower wheel loaders. Feedback from our customers indicates a very high level of satisfaction with regard to quality, fuel consumption and reliability,” emphasises Dr Pfab.
The XPower drive system combines performance, efficiency and comfort
At the heart of the XPower wheel loaders is the power-split drive system with its power-split transmission. “At the transmission input, the power is split into two branches. The mechanical branch ensures high efficiency, whilst the hydraulic side enables infinitely variable control. At the transmission output, the two power streams are recombined so that engine power is available at the wheels,” explains Dr Pfab. XPower thus offers the highest efficiency during material loading and transport, as well as optimum acceleration and maximum power across all loading cycles – even over long distances. For the customer, this means high machine performance and low fuel consumption.
The power-split transmission used in the XPower drive is continuously variable and automatically sets the ideal gear ratio for the current operating conditions. In addition, the diesel engine and the working hydraulics are taken into account and coordinated with one another using the intelligent machine software. The result is maximum performance with minimum fuel consumption and the highest level of operating comfort. Combined with the spacious, ergonomically designed cab, the XPower wheel loaders thus impress with their comfort and intuitive operation, regardless of the application.
Teamwork as the key to success
The development of the XPower drive system was a complex undertaking. At the time, a standard power-split drive system for wheel loaders was a novel concept. “The collaboration with our partner ZF was a very close and important partnership. Together, we had to ensure that the system functioned reliably in the vehicle. That was a major undertaking,” reports Dr Pfab. But collaboration within the Liebherr plant in Bischofshofen was also a decisive factor. “Without the outstanding team at Liebherr, the implementation would not have been successful,” summarises Dr Pfab.
“We all had a strong determination to make the system a success. Such a high level of motivation stemmed from the mutual trust that has grown through our long-standing collaboration. The mutual understanding and the friendships that have developed from it still form a strong foundation for professional achievements today. We all pulled together, and that was also a key reason for the success,” Dr Pfab continues. Overall, Liebherr’s capabilities and ZF’s expertise have resulted in a high-performance drive system that is optimally tailored to applications in the wheel loader sector.
Vision for the future: alternative powertrains and autonomy
Liebherr is constantly refining the proven XPower concept and using it as the basis for new technological milestones. Examples of this include the first prototype of a large wheel loader with a hydrogen engine, the L 566 H. “The underlying technology remains the same: an engine combined with the XPower drive system and powertrain,” explains Dr Pfab. Liebherr is also relying on XPower in the field of digitalisation and automation. “As we demonstrated at Bauma 2025, the XPower concept will also be capable of autonomous operation in the medium term. This is a major step into the future and demonstrates our innovative strength in putting technological progress into practice for the benefit of our customers,” says Dr Pfab. Liebherr is thus focusing on sustainability to reduce emissions by means of alternative drive types and digitalisation without compromising the core advantages of the XPower concept.
Anniversary promotion for customers
To mark the anniversary, Liebherr is offering a discount as part of its “Power Deals” when purchasing an XPower wheel loader complete with attachment. Depending on the model, customers will receive a discount of €4,000 net on the purchase of an L 550 – L 556 XPower wheel loader, €5,500 on the L 566 – L 580 XPower models, and a total discount of €9,000 on the L 586 XPower.
