CONEXPO 2026 to Showcase Advancements in AI and Autonomy

For machines and sub-systems to advance, it is critical that component manufacturers continue to improve their product capabilities and performance. I look forward specifically to seeing enhancements in digital controls and displays.

Power & Motion: What do you think will be some of the biggest themes or technological trends exhibited at this year’s show? Are there new trends entering the hydraulics and construction equipment industries that are likely to be showcased, or will it be some of the same trends we’ve seen over the years such as automation and electrification?

David Stevenson: I expect that this year will have a trend of regionalization and autonomy. The geopolitical landscape has driven many manufacturers to localize production to North America. We expect announcements from major manufacturers of additional global sites.

In addition, the advancement in AI and autonomy will continue to drive innovations in unmanned machinery. I am excited to see what is shown in the new world of autonomous machinery.

Read the article "How Automation is Impacting Hydraulic and Pneumatic Designs" to learn more about how fluid power systems are evolving to meet the needs of automated systems and machines.

Power & Motion: Electrification has been a dominant trend in recent years, but seems to have cooled some in the past year or so. Is electrification still an important development area for your company and its customers in the construction equipment and other mobile equipment applications?

David Stevenson: The change in the White House has resulted in a mindset shift regarding electrification. The new administration has taken the stance that there are industries and applications where electrification makes sense, but the growth of these industries should be based off value creation. This has removed much of the government subsidies that drove a good portion of the development of electrified machines.

All of this to say, electrification will continue to grow, but at a slower rate. The growth will come from the value of how machines can be used (indoors, in noise-regulated areas…etc.), how they perform (quieter, smoother…etc.) and the impact to carbon emissions.

Power & Motion: Are you able to share what themes or technology areas your company will be showcasing at its CONEXPO booth this year?

David Stevenson: Our theme is Efficiency Starts Here. We are highlighting our capabilities [in] creating highly efficient system solutions utilizing our wide product portfolio. This portfolio allows us to create complete solutions with Bucher-manufactured components such as inverters, pumps (gear and piston), valves (cartridge, sectional and monoblock), cylinders, and power units.

Power & Motion: What are some of the features or capabilities OEMs in the construction equipment market are looking for currently from their hydraulic components and systems?

David Stevenson: Noise reduction, improved safety, reduced energy consumption/emissions, predictive maintenance and improvement in controls.

Power & Motion: How do you see the use of hydraulics in construction equipment continuing to evolve in the next 5 years? 

David Stevenson: We will see a movement towards increased autonomy, energy recouperation and electrification in small- to medium-sized machines. From a hydraulics standpoint this means that there will be increased simplicity for the user by adding additional complexity to the system. This includes additional sensors, new pump technologies, higher and higher voltage levels on electrified machines, and many other advancements.

I am excited about what is to come and am confident Bucher Hydraulics is in a good place to serve the technological advancements in this market.