To mark 25 years of building rubber-tyred gantry (RTG) cranes, Liebherr has rolled out a new range designed for today’s high-pressure, eco-conscious ports. The updated line features five models with a strong focus on sustainability, efficiency, and future-readiness.
Liebherr’s latest RTG portfolio covers a wide range of needs—from fully electric options to more fuel-efficient diesel systems. Here’s what’s new:
RTG-CB (Electric – Conductor Bar): Runs on continuous electricity through a fixed conductor bar system. It has zero emissions during use, but needs significant infrastructure to set up.
ERTG-CRD (Electric – Cable Reeling Drum): Also fully electric, but uses a flexible cable drum that allows more movement around the yard.
RTG-HC (Hybrid – Capacitor): This hybrid model uses energy-storing capacitors and a small diesel engine. It’s the most affordable hybrid and pays itself off the fastest.
RTG-HB (Hybrid – Battery): Stores energy in batteries and runs on a smaller diesel generator, offering lower fuel use and fewer emissions.
RTG-VSG (Diesel – Variable Speed): An upgraded diesel crane with improved energy performance, designed for terminals not ready to go electric.
Along with the cranes, Liebherr is offering new software that helps ports choose the right model. It simulates energy use, emissions, and costs based on local fuel prices, energy costs, and how busy the terminal is. That way, port operators can make better long-term decisions—balancing cost with environmental impact.
“We’re offering true flexibility,” said Charlie McCarthy, MD-Engineering at Liebherr. “Whether you want full electrification or just better fuel efficiency, we’ve got options.”
One long-standing feature–the eight-rope system–reduces sway when moving containers, helping cranes work faster and more accurately. That core design stays, but now it’s backed by automation and remote operation tech to make work smoother and safer.
Over the years, Liebherr has steadily added productivity upgrades, from destination control systems to fully autonomous operation. Whether wired or wireless, the goal is clear: less downtime, more efficient handling.