With the release of The LEGO Technic 4×4 X-treme Off-Roader (42099) at the start of the month (currently on backorder status as of this posting), follows the release as well of its accompanying LEGO Technic Control+ app that allows a wide range of remote control access to this set via any app-compatible smartphone. Like the rest of the new Technic sets that take advantage of LEGO’s new Powered-Up technology, the 4×4 X-treme Off-Roader is a good starting point to launch the theme’s flagship set for 2019: the LEGO Technic Liebherr R 9800 (42100).
Coming in at 4,108 pieces and utilizing the latest Powered-Up accessories, this mammoth build is the largest and most advanced set ever created for the Technic line. For those who are eagerly waiting for this set, we might need to be more patient since it has been reported that the LEGO Technic Liebherr R 9800 will be released on a later date, from an initial August launching it has been apparently moved to the month of October. We had an initial look of its physical features back in April when several German LEGO fan sites published several promotional images of the set were provided by the Liebherr Group.
Now thanks to a now-expired eBay auction, we now have a couple of official images of the LEGO Technic Liebherr R 9800 (42100). It may not be that much, but it does give us an idea of how grand this set is.
In preparation for the launch of this set including that of the 4×4 X-treme Off-Roader, LEGO has also released its accompanying app the LEGO Technic Control+ via Apple App and Google Play stores. The Control+ app allows a wide range of remote control access to the LEGO Technic Liebherr R 9800 (42100) and to other future LEGO Technic sets that will also make use of the new Powered-Up components. Here’s the official description of the Control+ app.
LEGO Technic Control+ App
Take your LEGO® Technic™ experience to a new level of realism:
Get unique experiences designed especially for each LEGO® Technic™ Control+ model.
Drive and operate your models in razor-sharp realistic detail with the Multi-function control mode.
Try alternative control schemes with the One-touch screen.
Test your vehicle-handling skills, complete challenges, unlock reward badges and spark your imagination with inspirational videos in Challenges & Achievements mode.
Enjoy realistic sound effects, authentic controls, real-time data feedback, and lifelike features and functions.
Connect your LEGO® Technic™ 4×4 X-treme Off-Roader (42099) and:
Drive forward, reverse, steer, accelerate, brake and traverse obstacles, and get real-time speed readings, tilt and speed logs and more in the Multi-function control screen.
Drag a path with your finger in the One-touch screen and watch your model follow it with razor-sharp precision.
Put your driving skills to the test and unlock badges in Challenges & Achievements mode.
Is your device compatible? Please go to LEGO.com/devicecheck to check if your device is compatible. Ask your parents’ permission before going online.
The LEGO® Technic™ X-Treme Off-Roader set (42099) is sold separately.
German LEGO fan site Klemmbausteinlyrik was kind enough to share their interview with the design team behind the LEGO Technic Liebherr R 9800 (42100) during the 2019 LEGO Fan Media Days that happened in Billund last May. The video gives us a glimpse at the enormous scale and complexity of this set, together with the many features of the Control+ app.
The LEGO Technic Liebherr R 9800 (42100) is expected to retail for a whopping 450 Euros or approximately $500 USD. It comes in at 4,108 pieces and includes 2 Powered-Up smart hubs and 7 motors, with a release date of sometime in October.