Spierings Mobile Cranes goes all out for hybrid power

Making the connection between an electric Spierings crane and the site power. Photo: Spierings

Dutch crane maker Spierings has stopped producing diesel powered versions of its mobile folding construction cranes and switched to only building hybrid models.

“This makes Spierings the first company in the world to exclusively build cranes that hoist entirely electrically,” the manufacturer said. The latest version of the SK487-AT3 City Boy can run completely on electricity. The other models run the crane functions electrically and road travel is via a diesel engine.

Strong interest in hybrid solutions and keen environmental awareness precipitated the move. ”The electrification of the construction site can only succeed if the manufacturer leads the way,” said Koos Spierings, CEO.

“Our domestic customers already realise that this is the future. For our foreign customers, it will take some adjustment, but we are sure they will soon see the benefits of this decision as well. Eventually, conventional diesel cranes will die out,” Spierings continued.

How it works

The hybrid system uses 33 kW-h rechargeable lithium-ion batteries to power the crane emissions-free at the point of use. In case of emergency, there is a small 3-cylinder diesel engine to European Stage V exhaust emissions regulations.

Spierings reported deliveries of more than 150 units of its eLift electric cranes. The crane element can be powered by a 16 Amp site power connection. A total company turnover of around €100 million was reported for the full year 2022.

Unfolding a whole new philosophy on power for cranes. Photo: Spierings