Sims Crane & Equipment has showcased the world’s first battery powered crawler crane at its corporate headquarters in Tampa, marking the crane’s debut in the USA.
The largest private crane rental and rigging service in Florida hosted the Liebherr LR 1250.1 Unplugged battery powered crawler crane’s US debut event with the crane’s designer and manufacturer in attendance.
After a breakfast and rendition of the national anthem, Sims and Liebherr held a joint presentation detailing the history of both companies and the features of the newly manufactured LR 1250.1.
Liebherr’s 1250.1 Unplugged holds a 250-tonne capacity and can work for eight hours when unplugged or for an unlimited amount of time when connected to a power source. The crane possesses a 148m hoist height, a maximum working radius of 97m, and cuts local carbon emissions completely. According to the German manufacturers, the Liebherr battery powered crawler crane does not feature a reduced operational capacity compared to its diesel-powered counterpart.
Additionally, the battery powered crawler crane is significantly quieter than its diesel counterpart, making it a suitable option for construction jobs in residential areas, hospitals, and in other locations where noise pollution creates concerns.
“We are honoured to partner with Liebherr and be on the forefront to serve a vastly growing need for alternative energy,” said Jackson Sims, Vice President of Sims Crane & Equipment.
The news comes after Select Plant Australia recently took stock of two Liebherr LR 1250.1 Unplugged crawler cranes, the first of their kind to arrive on Australian shores.
Australia’s move to electric plant and heavy machinery is being accelerated by the Federal Government’s decision to impose new, more stringent restrictions on new heavy vehicles entering the country from November 1, 2024.
Sims has been operating in Florida since 1959 and recently announced its expansion into Georgia, Atlanta.
READ MORE: Liebherr’s sustainable crane for the maritime industry.