Mobile Cranes

The Mobile Cranes division achieved a new record of € 2,243 million in sales in 2018. This represents a € 190 million or 9.3 % increase compared with the year before.

Development compared to previous year*
Turnover in € m
from 2,053 		( + 9.3% ) 0
Investments in € m
from 65 		( + 29.2% ) 0
Employees
from 4,767 		( + 2.4% ) 0

Turnover by sales regions

  1. European Union
    47.1%
  2. North America
    21.4%
  3. Central and South America
    2.8%
  4. Non-EU countries
    5.5%
  5. Asia and Oceania
    15.5%
  6. Africa, Near and Middle East
    7.7%

Upward trend for Mobile Cranes

After years of steady high growth, the global market for mobile cranes expanded in 2018 despite the uncertain political climate. In contrast, the market for crawler cranes declined compared with the previous year. This was particularly the case for sales of large machines, with the underlying cause being a downturn in the wind energy industry.

The division succeeded in slightly increasing its sales in the European Union year on year. In Non-EU countries a slight decline in revenues could be seen. In North America as well as in Central and South America, heavy demand for mobile cranes resulted in a significant increase in turnover. Revenues also increased in Asia and Oceania as well as in Africa, Near and Middle East.

All-terrain cranes in the four- to six-axle classes were the most popular products in the division. The difficult market conditions for crawler cranes were reflected in the declining sales figures among new and used machines in all size classes. The division succeeded in maintaining and even partly expanding its market shares around the world.

Through digital technologies, Liebherr now offers an immersive, 3D project-planning experience as well as operator training available 24/7 to users around the world.

New, digital inroads and proven technologies

2018 saw the launch of some new products, with the division unveiling the LR 1800-1.0, featuring a new boom system that makes it especially cost-effective to transport. Furthermore, Liebherr started converting its LR-series crawler cranes to emissions level V diesel engines. The new LTM 1230-5.1 mobile crane also made its début. This model expands on the VarioBase Plus outrigger technology, enabling exceptionally high load capacity, even with large radii.

In addition to this, Liebherr introduced two new digital solutions. Crane Planner 2.0 software with virtual reality goggles now provides an immersive planning experience for complex crane projects. The "Mobile Crane Operator" online training course also helps crane operators to be better prepared for day-to-day operations.

In terms of investment, the division focused primarily on real estate as well as business and operational equipment last year. Customer service was a major focus of investment. For 2019, the Mobile Cranes division expects sales figures to remain on a par with 2018.

* Restatement first time adoption of IFRS 9 / 15 / 16.