Liebherr has announced that its newly launched A 909 Compact Litronic and A 911 Compact Litronic have received the prestigious “Red Dot: Best of the Best 2026” recognition in the Product Design category of the internationally renowned Red Dot Design Award 2026. The honour represents the highest distinction within the Red Dot Award programme and is reserved for products demonstrating exceptional innovation, functionality, and design excellence.
The two compact wheeled excavators were introduced publicly for the first time last year as part of Liebherr’s expanding portfolio of compact construction equipment. Designed specifically for demanding construction and urban infrastructure applications, the new models combine compact dimensions, high performance, advanced operating technologies, and enhanced user comfort.
According to the company, the machines secured the top distinction after competing against entries submitted by leading companies and design studios from around the world. The international jury recognised the excavators for their advanced engineering, outstanding product quality, and comprehensive user-focused design approach. The two models received 96 out of a possible 100 Red Dot Winner Points.
A 909 Compact Litronic and A 911 Compact Litronic were developed from the ground up to meet the requirements of modern construction environments where space constraints, flexibility, and efficiency are critical. Positioned in the nine-tonne and eleven-tonne operating classes respectively, the machines combine compact proportions with powerful hydraulic systems and precise controls, enabling high manoeuvrability even in confined operating areas.
A major highlight of the new excavator range is its emphasis on operator comfort and ease of use. Despite their compact external dimensions, both machines feature the largest cab interiors in their segment. Spacious access areas, improved all-round visibility, and ergonomically designed controls contribute to greater operator comfort and workplace safety during long operating hours.
The excavators are also equipped with Liebherr’s newly developed INTUSI operating system, an intuitive and customisable user interface designed to simplify machine control and operational management. The operating system is complemented by newly developed joysticks that integrate advanced control functions aimed at improving precision, productivity, and ease of operation.
The company stated that all aspects of the machines, including the cab layout, operating systems, and exterior styling, were developed with a strong focus on functionality, durability, and user benefit. The overall design language also aligns closely with Liebherr’s broader product portfolio, reinforcing the company’s emphasis on consistency, quality, and technical advancement.
In addition to performance and operator-focused features, the compact wheeled excavators have been engineered for ease of transportation and rapid deployment between job sites. Their compact structure and efficient setup capabilities make them particularly suitable for contractors handling multiple urban infrastructure or municipal projects requiring frequent relocation of equipment.
The Red Dot Design Award is regarded among the world’s most respected design competitions. Established in 1955, the award recognises products that demonstrate outstanding design quality across categories including functionality, innovation, usability, responsibility, and aesthetics. Entries are evaluated by an independent international jury comprising specialists from multiple design and engineering disciplines.
Award-winning products are showcased globally through exhibitions, publications, and presentations at Red Dot Design Museums and digital platforms. Over the years, the Red Dot distinction has become a globally recognised benchmark for excellence in industrial and product design. With the recognition of the A 909 Compact Litronic and A 911 Compact Litronic, Liebherr continues to strengthen its reputation for combining advanced engineering with practical, operator-focused machine development across the construction equipment sector.
