Autonomy in motion, reliable energy in action
Hello Xplore readers! In this edition, hear from the CEO of S1 Vision GmbH on autonomous transport reshaping mining and logistics, and see how the LPO 100 energy storage system is powering the construction of a civil protection measure in the Austrian Alps and hydrogen pipeline construction in Germany.
S1 Vision: Smaller. Smarter. Self-balancing.
S1 Vision GmbH, an innovative spin-off of the Liebherr Group, is developing a brand new generation of autonomous, battery-powered transport solutions in the form of its S1 Vision. In this interview, CEO Altan Enginalev shares how the prototype could revolutionise material transport in the fields of construction, mining, agriculture and logistics.
What makes the concept behind the S1 Vision so special?
The S1 Vision is a single-axle, autonomous dump truck that has been stripped down to the bare essential. It has one axle with two wheels and it dispenses with the driver’s cab altogether. The result is a vehicle that is compact, manoeuvrable and extremely efficient. The payload ranges from 220 kilograms to 131 tonnes, making the S1 Vision a flexible option for use in widely diverse industries. This versatility makes the S1 Vision a universal solution for material transport in the future.
What technological innovations can we expect from the S1 Vision?
The vehicle features a self-levelling system that ensures maximum stability and safety even on uneven terrain. With its zero-turn radius, the S1 Vision can turn on the spot, which is particularly beneficial on sites where space is at a premium. The battery-powered drive technology delivers zero-emissions operation and keeps operating costs low. Furthermore, the S1 Vision is fitted with sophisticated sensors and digital components. In future, multiple vehicles within one digital ecosystem should be able to communicate with each other and act in a coordinated manner. This paves the way for autonomous swarm technology and networked logistics processes.
How was the S1 Vision developed and what is next for the concept?
The development of the S1 Vision is an example of what can be achieved through close collaboration between different Liebherr competence centres. The body comes from the mining product segment, while the autonomous technology comes from the earthmoving segment. Newly founded company S1 Vision GmbH is essentially a spin-off, but uses resources and expertise from across the entire group of companies.
The goal is to ensure the fast-paced commercialisation and technological advancement of the S1 Vision. This will focus on testing new swarm technologies and adapting to different fields of application. S1 Vision GmbH is actively seeking partners and customers to join forces with in order to develop the concept and tap into new markets.
Check out the full interview here 👉 S1 Vision: Smaller. Smarter. Self-Balancing. - Liebherr
Built on battery, powered by innovation
When we think about innovation in construction, attention often goes to advanced machinery, new materials or digital solutions. Yet one of the most transformative technologies shaping the future of building is surprisingly simple: battery-based energy storages. The LPO 100 offers a smarter alternative to diesel generators, delivering only the energy that’s needed. This eliminates refuelling and cuts maintenance costs up to 80 % compared to diesel generators.
Austria: power provision at 1,000 metres
In the Grossarl valley, where avalanches and landslides threaten communities, the Austrian Torrent and Avalanche Control Centre is building a consolidation barrier to protect residents. Supplying reliable energy to a remote site with limited grid access and crane lifts demanding high power peaks was a major challenge.
Traditionally, a diesel generator would have been the default solution. Instead, the team deployed the LPO 100, a mobile energy storage unit with 94 kWh capacity.
The result?
Site manager Nikolaus Wieser is pleased with the energy storage system:
'Not only are we cutting emissions, but the solution is extremely practical for us – it can run all day without the need for refuelling. That means less logistical effort and less time spent on coordination. We can still use a generator if needed, but our goal is to reduce emissions. This solution is both innovative and highly functional.' Nikolaus Wieser, site manager from the Austrian Torrent and Avalanche Control Centre
See the LPO 100 in action in Austria 👉 Sustainable power supply in construction – Liebherr energy storage systems for Austrian civil protection - Liebherr
Germany: pioneering a zero-emission construction site
Hundreds of kilometres away, in Buchholz in der Nordheide, as part of the pioneering Hyperlink project in Buchholz in der Nordheide, we helped prepare Germany’s natural gas network for hydrogen transport. This model construction site sets new standards for emission-free operations.
Two battery-electric machines – the L 507 E wheel loader and the A 916 E wheeled excavator – delivered full performance with zero local emissions. Power was supplied by our LPO 100 battery storage system, supported by a mobile hydrogen generator, ensuring a stable, off-grid energy supply. Solar panels added another layer of sustainability, covering container energy needs and storing surplus power.
The result?
Why it matters: the construction site is fully electric and sets a benchmark for climate-conscious construction.
‘We’re contributing our electric machines and energy storage solutions to help set new standards for sustainable site concepts alongside strong partners.’ Thomas Koll, Liebherr-Baumaschinen Vertriebs‑ und Service GmbH
Read more about the Hyperlink project 👉 Liebherr helps shape one of Germany’s first low-emission construction projects
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