Electrifying Americas inland waterways

Mounted on hybrid-powered barges, the cranes are powered entirely by electric drives, eliminating hydraulic fluids and significantly cutting emissions.

The first all-electric transshipment cranes to operate on the US inland waterways, each crane has a 90-tonne grab capacity, a 105-tonne hook load and a handling rate of up to 2,000 tonnes per hour.

“These Liebherr cranes are more than just equipment,” said Todd Fuller, president of Associated Terminals. “They represent our commitment to continuous improvement, environmental responsibility and employing advanced technology in marine cargo handling.”

Equipped with advanced features like SmartGrip technology and Liebherr’s LiCaTronic energy recovery system, the cranes optimise energy use and safety while operating efficiently in a wide temperature range. Their hybrid power setup ensures autonomous operation, even in remote locations, while reducing fuel consumption.

“This project is a technological milestone and a new chapter in bulk cargo handling,” said Tim Ladendorf, global application manager at Liebherr Maritime Cranes.

“It shows how our electric crane solutions can adapt to new markets while supporting a more sustainable logistics future.”

Operating on the Mississippi River – one of the busiest inland waterways in the States – the cranes give Associated Terminals the flexibility to bypass fixed infrastructure and expand their operational footprint.