Liebherr Launches Electric Compact Wheel Loader
Liebherr has launched its first electric compact wheel loader, the L 507 E, in the European market.
Availability in Europe and Potential Expansion to North America
The machine has been available from Liebherr sales partners in several European countries since October 2023. It is the company’s first electric wheel loader, combining the demonstrable advantages of a Liebherr Stereo wheel loader with a battery-electric drive design.
No timeline has been set, but with the continuing drive for electrification even in the North American market, chances are good that the machine will eventually make its way across the Atlantic Ocean.
Environmental and Performance Benefits
With no CO2 emissions and reduced noise from running off a 377 V high-voltage lithium-ion modular battery system, the L 507 E matches the performance of its conventional counterpart, the L 507 Stereo, while being more applicable to areas where you must consider noise or exhaust fumes.
Battery Capability and Charging Time
Whether at 32.2 kWh or 64.4 kWh, Liebherr’s modular battery concept makes it possible to individually adapt the machine’s power with run times up to 16 hours.
Liebherr says depending on the on-board charger and power rating, the L 507 E battery can be completely recharged in 1.5 to 3 hours. The on-board charging system guarantees fast charging without the use of external equipment.
Energy Efficiency and Safety Features
To increase efficiency, the energy generated when traveling downhill and during braking is fed back into the battery through recuperation.
Also, for safety purposes, permanent, system-controlled monitoring of the high-voltage plug contacts and electric wiring means that circuitry is automatically switched off in the event of a defect.
Intuitive Operation and Design
According to Liebherr, the L 507 E can be operated intuitively and hardly differs from a conventional wheel loader, allowing even less experienced operators to work safely and efficiently with it.
Liebherr also installed its articulated pendulum joint in the L 507 E, which compensates for uneven ground and ensures stability.
Liebherr’s battery-powered wheel loader uses the same lift arms of the conventionally powered L 507 Stereo, showcasing the company’s Z-bar kinematics, which work in fork operation without the need for manual readjustment.
Additional Features for Agility and Speed
Like its cousin, the L 507 Stereo wheel loader, the L 507 E features stereo steering, a harmonized combination of articulated steering and rear axle steering. The optional combinations of electrohydraulics and angle sensors provide additional possibilities for machine coordination.
Working Environment and Operator Comfort
Liebherr says the cab of the L 507 E is ergonomically optimized for operator comfort, including an improved layout of the control elements that are intuitive to use. The amount of glass in the cab provides unobstructed visibility around the machine.
Speed Options and Z-Bar Kinematics
As standard, the wheel loader has a final speed of 20 km/h. However, the L 507 E is also optionally available as a “Speeder” and in this version reaches a speed of up to 30 km/h.
Fully Automatic Quick Coupling System and Machine Safety
For a change of buckets or other attachments, Liebherr’s fully automatic (LIKUFIX) quick coupler system is available.
The intelligent machine design of the L 507 E ensures risk-free transportation of loads even on rough terrain.
Ergonomics and Visibility in the Cabin
In addition, an optional integrated reversing camera provides additional views for increased safety and visibility.