CONEXPO-CON/AGG 2026: From Machine Control to AI-powered Jobsites

LECTURA, a long-standing media partner of CONEXPO-CON/AGG, attended the 2026 edition in Las Vegas to explore how digitalisation and intelligent technologies are reshaping the heavy machinery industry. Held from 3 to 7 March 2026, North America’s largest construction trade fair hosted more than 2,000 exhibitors and over 140,000 visitors, confirming its role as a global platform for construction, aggregates, infrastructure and technology.

Before the official opening, Media Monday gave journalists an exclusive preview of new products and technology launches. The programme offered a sneak peek into key trends: machine control, fleet platforms, electric drivetrains, automation, safety systems and software designed to make jobsites more efficient and safer.

Digital machine control was one of the strongest topics. Topcon Positioning Systems presented 3D-MC Edge for greater grading accuracy and faster response, alongside excavator updates including slope control, hybrid lock and load weighing. Komatsu North America spotlighted the PC220LCi-12 next-generation excavator with intelligent Machine Control 3.0, 3D boundary control and a redesigned cab. These solutions showed how digital guidance is key to precision earthmoving.

Connected fleet management was another major theme. LiuGong Machinery presented iLink, a cloud-based information platform supporting smarter machine monitoring, while New Holland Construction focused on machine control and fleet management through telematics data stored in the myNewHollandConstruction platform. All new models, including the E25X electric mini excavator, include a seven-year telematics subscription.

Software solutions also reflected the industry’s inclination towards data-driven operations. IVO Systems introduced an operations software platform for heavy civil contractors, covering timecards, equipment and project tracking, scheduling, dispatching and maintenance. Moog Construction presented its Adaptive Electrification Management System, designed to give equipment manufacturers better control and flexibility in electric machine development.

AI and operator assistance were frequently mentioned buzzwords. Bobcat highlighted the Jobsite Companion, an AI-enabled function control concept for compact equipment, while its futuristic RogueX3 loader concept outlined the next generation of intelligent loaders. Wirtgen Group presented a full range of digital solutions and John Deere SmartDetect, an advanced camera-based and machine-learning-powered safety technology. DEVELON North America launched its dash 9 crawler excavators and demonstrated advanced functions on the DX230LC-9 excavator.

Electrification supported the digital theme across several stands. LiuGong displayed the 820TE and 870HE electric wheel loaders and the fully electric 922FE excavator. Volvo CE announced an ambitious plan to become 100% fossil-free, supported by a $2 billion investment, and globally debuted the EC560 crawler excavator. Kubota launched the SVL110-3 compact track loader with advanced features such as Creep Mode.

Smart components and specialist technologies added further depth. Husco showcased GenSteer, a steer-by-wire system that can convert operator input into electrical power. Prinoth introduced the Panther T23R crawler carrier with PowerForce undercarriage and dual-setting shock absorbers. FUTTEC presented microwave asphalt repair technology, while DYNASET’s hydraulic recycling vacuum bucket demonstrated efficient debris removal for demolition and recycling jobsites.

CONEXPO-CON/AGG 2026 showed that the connected jobsite is no longer a future concept. From AI safety to telematics, automated machine control, electric platforms and digital service tools, intelligent technologies are becoming part of everyday construction. For more information about the newest products presented at the fair, explore the LECTURA Innovation Guide. Stay tuned and mark the dates for the next edition in your calendar: March 13–17, 2029.