Press releases | 18/12/2025

Whitnell plant chooses Liebherr PR 736 G8 for versatile earthmoving operations

Father-and-son team Lionel and Matt Whitnell combine traditional earthmoving expertise with modern technology
Liebherr PR 736 G8 selected for versatility, efficiency, and comfort on long working days
Customised machine supports precise grading, soft-ground operations, and reliable on-site performance

Family values and engineering excellence come together at Whitnell Plant, where father and son, Lionel and Matt Whitnell, continue a long-standing tradition of hands-on earthmoving expertise. Over decades in the industry, Lionel has built a reputation for skill and commitment, knowledge he now passes directly to Matt as they run the company together.

Whitnell Plant remains a champion of traditional earthmoving practices, operating motor scrapers across bulk earthworks and civil engineering projects, while sharing their expertise with peers across the industry. In early 2021, the Whitnells sought a new dozer to complement their fleet. As a small family business, every investment must deliver value.

Selecting a Machine for Versatility and Efficiency

The machine needed to handle a wide range of tasks, from fine trimming to heavy pushing, while remaining comfortable for long days on site. Trials were arranged between Liebherr and another leading brand, with careful evaluation of fuel economy, performance, and operator comfort. Following the tests, the Liebherr PR 736 G8 emerged as the preferred choice. “The trials gave us a clear understanding of the machine’s capabilities,” Lionel explained. “It offered consistent performance and overall efficiency for our needs, supported by excellent guidance from our sales representative.”

Customised Design and Advanced Technology

The PR 736 G8 ordered by Whitnell Plant was tailored to their specific requirements. Its 4.84 m³ 6-way PAT blade features foldable corners to reduce transport width, while LGP tracks lower ground pressure to just 6.1 psi, ideal for soft ground. A 5-tine ripper enhances versatility, and additional LED lighting and a 360° camera system ensure safe and efficient operation. Powered by a 7-litre diesel engine delivering 238 hp, the hydrostatic transmission adjusts speed and drawbar pull automatically, delivering smooth and efficient operation across varying conditions. Inside the Generation 8 cab, the operator benefits from excellent visibility, ergonomically placed controls, and pre-wiring for Trimble or Leica GPS systems. Liebherr’s Operator Assistance Systems, including Active Blade Stabilisation and Active Blade Positioning, support precise grading with minimal effort.

Performance on Site and Reliable Support

The PR 736 G8 made its debut near Ipswich on a land remediation project for Sirius Group, where Matt spread cut-and-fill material across a 50-metre-wide site to exact levels for follow-on compaction. “The machine handled the material smoothly and consistently, allowing us to achieve a precise finish efficiently,” he said. Initial servicing will be supported by Liebherr, with ongoing maintenance managed by Whitnell Plant. “We know what is required to keep a hydrostatic dozer in peak condition,” Lionel noted. “Liebherr’s support is reliable and always available when needed.”

The choice of the Liebherr PR 736 G8 reflects Whitnell Plant’s commitment to combining traditional earthmoving expertise with modern technology, providing efficiency, precision, and sustainability on every project.