Florida’s largest private crane rental and rigging service company showcased the world’s first battery powered crawler crane at its corporate headquarters in Tampa. Sims Crane & Equipment Co. hosted the machine’s late-2023 U.S. debut in conjunction with engineer and manufacturer Liebherr. The unveiling followed the national anthem and a MacDill Air Force Base color guard presentation.
Sims Crane and Liebherr representatives reviewed features of the newly manufactured LR 1250.1 electric crane and demonstrated its capabilities. The battery powered engine cuts local carbon emissions completely, and is capable of operating for eight hours unplugged, or for an unlimited amount of time when connected to a power source. Sims Crane and Liebherr note there is no compromise in performance between the model’s electric and diesel powered versions. The LR 1250.1 is also significantly quieter than its diesel counterpart, making it ideal for construction jobs in residential areas, at hospitals and in other locations where noise pollution may be a concern.
“We are honored to partner with Liebherr and be on the forefront to serve a vastly growing need for alternative energy,” said Sims Crane Vice President Jackson Sims.
BIGGE ORDER
Shortly after the Florida event, Bigge Crane and Rigging Co. announced a California-bound Liebherr 1250.1 as the latest addition to its 1,800-crane nationwide fleet. The machine is the first of its kind in the Golden State and West Coast markets. The rental giant acquired it to provide an option for customers who are keen on an environmentally conscious heavy-lifting solution.
“We have a longstanding, successful relationship with the team at Liebherr and are excited to add their all-electric crawler crane to our Perfect Fleet,” noted Bigge Crane Vice President and Chief Business Development Officer Joe Nelms. “Our roots are in the San Francisco Bay Area, and we’re excited to be a part of California’s push for a greener future.”
For customers concerned they will have to make a sacrifice for going electric, he added, the LR 1250.1 sports the same maximum lifting capacity (275 tons), hoisting speed (up to 446 feet per minute), and maximum reach (486 feet) as the diesel version. Due to its electric powertrain, the new crane exhibits drastically reduced noise factors than a diesel powered machine while in working mode (< 101 dbA), a level comparable to that of a household lawnmower or kitchen blender.