Associated Terminals has taken a decisive step towards sustainable maritime operations with the acquisition of two Liebherr CBG 500 E transshipment cranes. All crane movements on the CBG 500 E are powered exclusively by electric drives, eliminating the need for hydraulic fluids and ensuring a cleaner, more sustainable operation.
These all-electric cranes will operate on a hybrid-powered barge and mark a major milestone as Liebherr enters the U.S. transshipment sector for the first time. While the crane operations are fully electric, the onboard energy supply is ensured by a modern diesel-electric power system, allowing for continuous, autonomous operation on the river. This configuration balances the precision and efficiency of electric drives with the flexibility and reliability required for midstream logistics. It also enables optimised fuel usage through intelligent power management, significantly reducing emissions per tonne handled. This strategic deployment not only introduces Liebherr’s flagship electric crane to the inland waterways of North America but also underscores the exceptional adaptability of its crane technology to meet the evolving demands of river-based logistics.
Each crane offers an exceptional 105 tonnes in hook mode with a remarkable 90-tonne load capacity in grab operation, surpassing the typical range found in most inland transshipment operations and being an impressive figure in the transshipment sector. Combined with a handling rate of up to 2,000 tonnes per hour and a 50-metre boom, this performance represents a substantial leap in operational capability. In a market where efficiency and throughput are critical, these cranes set a new benchmark. The CBG 500 E enable faster vessel turnaround, reduced handling times, and increased cargo volumes. This deployment not only enhances operational efficiency and supports the company’s extensive river-based cargo operations.
‘These Liebherr cranes are more than just equipment. They represent our commitment to continuous improvement, environmental responsibility, and employing advanced technology in marine cargo handling. The level of innovation in these systems aligns perfectly with our long-term strategy for operational excellence.’ said Todd Fuller, President of Associated Terminals.
A strategic shift toward cleaner cargo handling
Operating one of the largest midstream cargo transfer fleets on the Mississippi, Associated Terminals handles millions of tonnes annually. This investment marks a pivotal upgrade to its operational capabilities and underscores Associated Terminals’ commitment to modernising its fleet while reducing environmental impact. By integrating the CBG 500 E into its fleet, the company is not only reducing its carbon footprint but also enhancing operational flexibility and throughput. The hybrid floating crane platforms allow for flexible cargo transfers across a broad geographic area, bypassing the limitations of fixed infrastructure.
‘The CBG 500 E represent a new chapter in bulk cargo handling’, said Tim Ladendorf, Global Application Manager for ship cranes, port and transshipment solutions for Liebherr Maritime Cranes. ‘Delivering the CBG 500 E to Associated Terminals is not only a technological milestone but marks Liebherr’s first step into the U.S. inland transshipment sector. This project demonstrates how our all-electric crane solutions can adapt to new markets and operational models, while supporting our partners in building a more sustainable and future-ready logistics network.’
Close technical coordination ensured the cranes were configured to meet specific performance and integration requirements. The electric drive system incorporates Liebherr’s LiCaTronic energy recovery technology, which stores and reuses braking energy via supercapacitors. A closed-loop water cooling system ensures stable performance across a wide temperature range, from –20°C to +45°C.
The CBG 500 E’s design and electric architecture make it ideally suited for barge-based operations, where space, stability, and energy efficiency are paramount. The collaboration between Liebherr and Associated Terminals has been marked by close technical coordination and a shared focus on long-term performance.
Pioneering the U.S. transshipment market with electric innovation
CBG 500 E, the first all-electric crane of its kind to be deployed in the inland waterway system of the United States, operates on a hybrid-powered barge, combining cutting-edge electric crane technology with flexible, mobile infrastructure. Its design prioritises lifting power, reliability, and environmental compatibility. SmartGrip technology automatically optimises grab filling rates, while the LiCAS collision alert system enhances operational safety. The operator’s cabin has been ergonomically redesigned with an elevated position, integrated touch panel, and climate control system to ensure comfort and visibility in all conditions.
Liebherr’s global service network and U.S.-based support teams will ensure seamless commissioning and long-term maintenance of the cranes, providing peace of mind and operational continuity for Associated Terminals.
As the industry moves towards electrification and automation, Liebherr’s collaboration with Associated Terminals signals a broader shift in how inland logistics will evolve in the coming decade. With the Mississippi River now serving as a proving ground for next-generation cargo solutions, the CBG 500 E stands as a symbol of progress. With this unique transshipment crane solution, Associated Terminals will usher in a new era of clean, capable transshipment.
