CONEXPO-CON/AGG 2026 is the largest construction trade show in North America, and it’s coming up very soon. Since the event is held only once every three years, it is the primary stage for major equipment launches and industry networking. The upcoming CONEXPO-CON/AGG 2026 in Las Vegas is going to be held from March 3 to March 7, 2026, and promises to revolutionize grading technology and the machines that drive it. Contractors and fleet managers who follow the heavy equipment industry will experience a mix of proven model previews. A wave of systems-level enhancements that will transform how they plan, execute, and measure grading work.
This report pulls together everything publicly announced so far from Caterpillar, John Deere (and the Wirtgen Group), Komatsu, Volvo Construction Equipment, and Case, covering new/preview motor grader models, major updates, and the software, telematics, and automation features that will matter on job sites. These developments reflect the industry’s shift toward smarter, more efficient construction solutions.
Manufacturer Updates: Models, Previews, & Booth Focus
The following is the brand-by-brand information based on official releases and industry previews.
Caterpillar: Verified grader previews and combined technology.
Caterpillar has already announced previews of the next-generation Cat 150 and 160 motor graders at CONEXPO 2026. Public materials indicate that the new 150 will be available with the choice of joystick or steering wheel and lever (LVR) controls, while the 160 will feature joystick control, reflecting ergonomic options that seek to make the operator more productive. Additionally, the Cat 140 LVR will make its official launch, adopting the next-gen cab design with 360-degree visibility options.
Also, in addition to the machines, Cat will feature combined solutions that connect graders to fleet and site operations: Cat Grade grade-control systems, VisionLink telematics/management updates, and Cat Command remote/semi-autonomous solutions, plus collision mitigation and Cat Detect demos. These integrations transform the grader from a simple piece of iron into a comprehensive technology platform.
John Deere & Wirtgen Group: Numerous world premieres, SmartGrade focus
John Deere and the Wirtgen Group are showing a heavy schedule of releases: joint booth content outlines 24 market releases with 18 world premieres from John Deere and 6 from Wirtgen. Although Deere has focused its pre-show announcements on all-new Deere-designed excavators, the magnitude of the launch and the focus on grade automation make grader improvements highly probable.
The digital product names of Deere, SmartGrade, and SmartDetect are being highlighted throughout the CONEXPO lineup, signifying the inclusion of grade control and detection/analytics into earthmoving and grading processes. These systems are critical for grader buyers because they change how accuracy and progress of grading are measured.
Komatsu: Connected performance and intelligent machine control (IMC)
Komatsu is promoting a “connected performance” theme and will spotlight its Intelligent Machine Control (IMC) 3.0 updates at the show. The previews of the company focus on the unification of 3D design data, automation, and telematics. This ensures that machines involved in grading processes will be able to perform work more accurately and with fewer corrections. Komatsu press materials specifically name IMC enhancements and jobsite connectivity demos as a centerpiece of their West Hall exhibit.
Volvo Construction Equipment (Volvo CE): Platform refresh, machine control, and services
Volvo CE’s previews outline roughly 20 machines at its booth, including more than a dozen new or first-look models. While Volvo has heavily marketed its new A60 articulated hauler and a series of new excavators, the company is highlighting services like machine control systems and advanced telematics. These site solutions apply directly to grading processes. Allowing attendees to test virtual simulators and experience how site offices manage grading data in real-time.
Case Construction Equipment: Broad product range, technology emphasis.
Case will have a huge presence of over 40 machines, featuring new D Series motor graders with optional electro-hydraulic joystick controls and upgraded cabs with 8-inch touchscreens. The brandis aggressively marketing the myCASEConstruction app and precision features. The technology hub within their booth will demonstrate 2D and 3D machine control solutions. These systems allow operators of all skill levels to achieve precise grades with less rework.
Technology & Feature Themes To Watch (how grading is changing)
All five OEMs share some cross-cutting themes, which are arguably as significant as any single new model.
- Automation & Intelligent Control: Systems that ingest 3D design data and automate blade control (Cat Grade, SmartGrade, Komatsu IMC) reduce operator variation and speed up finish grading.
- Telematics & Fleet Integration: Vendors are integrating on-machine telematics (VisionLink, Operations Center, myCASEConstruction) to monitor productivity, fuel consumption, and maintenance scheduling.
- Operator Experience & Controls: Joystick vs lever options, better displays (like Cat’s 10-inch or Case’s 8-inch screens), and operator-assist options (like Cat Stable Blade) are becoming standard to combat operator fatigue.
- Safety & Site Awareness: Manufacturers are combining grading functions with collision mitigation and “bird’s-eye” camera views (Cat Detect, SmartDetect) to minimize incidents during finish work.
What This Means For Buyers Of Graders & Fleets
In case you purchase heavy machinery to implement grading contracts, the 2026 show highlights the fact that new purchases are to be considered as hardware + software packages. Grade control, compatibility, and telematics with your site workflows can be more important than minor differences in horsepower.
For contractors handling precision roadwork or site prep. The new features that OEMs are marketing will likely reduce the number of passes and improve documentation. This will save time and cut down on rework. The change has an impact on the value proposition of a new motor grader as well as the economics of current fleets of construction machines.
Watch for live demos and Innovation Center schedules during March 3–7. Many brand announcements (especially from Deere/Wirtgen and Komatsu) will include field demos that show real-world productivity gains.
Final Takeaway & Next Steps
CONEXPO 2026 will blend machine reveals (notably Caterpillar’s next-gen 150 and 160 graders) with a larger story about software and automation. Site integration from Deere/Wirtgen, Komatsu, Volvo CE, and Case. When you run fleets of heavy equipment or have construction machines that you are bidding on, consider evaluating the show announcements on two axes: (1) the raw capability and ergonomics of the machine, and (2) the extent to which the machine integrates into grade-control, telematics, and jobsite processes.
FAQs
1. Which motor grader models are debuting at CONEXPO 2026?
A: Caterpillar is previewing the next-generation Cat 150 and Cat 160, and officially launching the Cat 140 LVR. Case is introducing the D Series graders with new electro-hydraulic controls.
2. What is the main technology focus for Komatsu this year?
A: Komatsu is highlighting Intelligent Machine Control (IMC) 3.0, which integrates 3D design data directly into the machine to automate and optimize grading and excavating passes.
3. Are electric motor graders being shown at the event?
A: While there is a major focus on electric compact equipment (like Case’s TL100EV and John Deere’s E-Power solutions). Most motor grader updates remain focused on Tier 4 Final diesel efficiency and hybrid-electric powertrain optimizations.
4. How does SmartGrade differ from standard grade control?
A: John Deere’s SmartGrade is a mastless, integrated 3D grade control system. Because it is factory-integrated, it eliminates the need for external masts and cables. This reduces the risk of damage and simplifies high-bank work.
Tags: construction machinery, equipment performance, grader resale value Texas
