Press releases | 03/03/2022 Electrifying: LR 1160.1 unplugged

The LR 1160.1 unplugged is one of the world’s first battery-operated crawler cranes. The electro-hydraulic drive has the same performance specifications as the conventional version. Both versions are operated in the same way, which is especially convenient for machine operators if they often have to switch between machines.

One exceptional feature of the unplugged machines is Zero Emission. They do not produce any emissions and are extremely quiet. This strikes the right note especially in noise-sensitive regions, and finds favour with construction site personnel and residents.

The loudest voice: silence

In idling mode the sound pressure level of three unplugged cranes, at a distance of 16 m, is equivalent to that of a normal conversation on the jobsite at a distance of 1 m. This corresponds to a value of only 60 dB(A). If it is taken into account that a crawler crane is in idling mode for 60 % of the time on the jobsite, this low noise level is an advantage with great resonance.

Unplug: that’s all you have to do

The LR 1160.1 unplugged can be operated with or without cable, therefore: unplugged. Capacity of the battery is designed for 8 hours lifting operation. The crane can be operated without restrictions while plugged into a conventional electric supply with 63 A, or charged within 4.5 hours. Using a 125 A supply, the battery can be fast-charged in only 2.5 hours.

Highest level of safety

The designers of the crane laid great emphasis on the safety concept. Just like every crawler crane from Liebherr-Werk Nenzing GmbH, the LR 1160.1 unplugged is equipped with all established assistant systems for safe operation.

The latest feature of the LR 1160.1 unplugged is the Gradient Travel Aid for the safe negotiation of slopes and inclines. The crane’s control system automatically calculates the centre of gravity and warns the operator before the crane leaves the safe area. While travelling, the operator receives information about the permissible and actual gradient and the crane's overall centre of gravity at all times. If necessary, the boom angle can be altered so that the machine remains in the safe area.

The Ground Pressure Visualization calculates the actual ground pressure of the machine in real time and compares it with the specified safety limits of the relevant jobsite. This means the operator is permanently aware of whether the machine is situated in, or is approaching, a critical area.

When erecting or lowering the boom, the Boom Up-and-Down Assistant indicates the approach to the tipping border and automatically stops operation before the operator unintentionally enters an unsafe zone.

First deployment: Great Britain

Liebherr-Werk Nenzing GmbH delivered the first three LR 1160.1 unplugged cranes to Great Britain. Select Plant Hire Company Ltd. is pursuing the goal of operating more and more zero-emission construction sites and has even planned three further LR 1160.1 unplugged cranes as investment for 2022.

Select already put its trust in the LR 1250.1 unplugged, the world's first battery-powered crawler crane, at the time of its market launch. The company has always endeavoured to lead the industry with the latest technology in cranes. With the unplugged series, the potential of crawler cranes to function optimally as an electric version has become reality. This achieves the best possible combination of customer benefit, environmental compatibility and efficiency.

The unplugged version of the crane can be recognized through the blue accent on the uppercarriage - the distinctive signature look.