Global construction equipment manufacturer Develon has partnered with Leica Geosystems, part of Hexagon, to extend the Leica MC1 3D machine control solution to all Develon 9 Series crawler excavators.
The companies announced that the Leica MC1 system will now be available as an aftermarket kit, allowing customers to enhance existing machines with advanced 3D control functionality.
The integration allows operators to use Leica’s 3D machine control functions alongside existing Develon 2D technologies.
By combining both systems, equipment owners can modernise their fleets without sacrificing the familiar interface and performance of Develon’s in‑cab systems.
The newly compatible setup enables machine operators to benefit from key Develon features such as Virtual Wall, which defines safe operation boundaries; a precise weighing system that provides real‑time load monitoring; and Lift Assist, designed to maintain operational stability.
These features remain fully accessible after installation of the Leica MC1 solution.
The upgraded control architecture within the 9 Series models supports instantaneous communication between Develon’s onboard sensors and Leica’s automation platform, ensuring smooth data exchange and uninterrupted productivity.
Develon Europe product manager Stephane Dieu said: “By expanding the availability of the Leica MC1 3D machine control solution to all 9 Series crawler excavators, Develon is reinforcing its commitment to innovation and customer satisfaction.”
According to the company, the Series 9 controller now manages the transfer of data between systems, facilitating a straightforward transition to 3D operation on site.
This approach minimises downtime, enabling fleet operators to enhance machine functionality quickly and cost‑effectively.
Leica Geosystems machine control division president Neil Williams said: “This partnership seamlessly integrates the advanced capabilities of Develon’s 2D systems with Leica Geosystems’ 3D technology.
“With an efficient installation and calibration process, this collaboration empowers customers to work smarter and achieve results faster.”
The collaboration between Develon and Leica Geosystems reflects a growing industry push toward fully integrated digital construction workflows.
As the construction and earthmoving sectors continue shifting toward automation and precision technology, equipment compatibility has become a decisive factor in machine selection and fleet upgrades.
Providing an aftermarket solution extends flexibility to contractors seeking to modernise existing excavators without full equipment replacement.
By allowing operators to transition from 2D to 3D control systems seamlessly, Develon and Leica Geosystems are aiming to improve accuracy in material placement, excavation grading, and project efficiency.
The integration also opens the way for more advanced applications, such as automated guidance and data‑driven site management.
This latest development builds on an ongoing strategic collaboration between the two companies.
Develon and Leica Geosystems have continued working to optimise compatibility between Develon’s precision machinery and Leica’s suite of geospatial and machine control technologies.
The partnership underscores a shared commitment to boosting job site productivity while enhancing user experience through intuitive, cohesive technology systems.
For operators and contractors, the availability of the Leica MC1 system across the entire Develon 9 Series signals a significant advancement in equipment adaptability and technological flexibility.
The combination of Develon’s proven construction machinery with Leica’s field‑tested automation tools offers a future‑ready pathway for excavation efficiency on complex job sites.