Associated Terminals Deploys Liebherr’s All-Electric Cranes in Landmark Move Toward Cleaner Cargo Handling

Associated Terminals has announced the acquisition of two Liebherr CBG 500 E transshipment cranes, a significant step forward in sustainable maritime logistics. These cranes are fully powered by electric drives, eliminating hydraulic fluids and reducing environmental impact. The deployment also marks Liebherr’s first entry into the U.S. transshipment market.

Designed for high-capacity cargo handling, the CBG 500 E units will be installed on a hybrid-powered barge, allowing operations to combine the precision of electric systems with the autonomy of a modern diesel-electric energy supply. This hybrid setup enables continuous operation on inland waterways while reducing fuel consumption and emissions through advanced energy management systems.

Each crane delivers 105 tonnes of lifting capacity in hook mode and 90 tonnes in grab operation. With a boom length of 50 metres and a handling capacity of up to 2,000 tonnes per hour, the CBG 500 E sets a new standard for operational performance in midstream cargo transfer.

Todd Fuller, President of Associated Terminals, emphasized the strategic importance of this investment. “These Liebherr cranes are more than just equipment. They reflect our commitment to continuous improvement, environmental stewardship, and technological advancement in cargo handling,” he said.

Associated Terminals operates one of the largest fleets for midstream cargo transfers on the Mississippi River, managing millions of tonnes annually. The addition of the CBG 500 E cranes is expected to enhance fleet flexibility, reduce port turnaround times, and support the company’s sustainability goals.

The electric drive system in the CBG 500 E incorporates Liebherr’s LiCaTronic energy recovery technology, which captures and reuses braking energy via supercapacitors. A closed-loop water cooling system ensures stable crane operation across a broad temperature range, making it suitable for diverse riverine conditions.

Liebherr’s SmartGrip feature automatically adjusts grab filling levels to optimize performance, while the LiCAS collision alert system improves operational safety. The operator’s cabin has been upgraded with climate control, an elevated position, and a touchscreen interface for enhanced comfort and visibility.

Tim Ladendorf, Global Application Manager at Liebherr Maritime Cranes, highlighted the significance of the deployment. “Delivering the CBG 500 E to Associated Terminals is both a technological milestone and our first step into the U.S. inland transshipment market. This collaboration demonstrates how our electric crane solutions can support cleaner, more flexible logistics operations.”

Liebherr’s U.S.-based support network will ensure smooth commissioning and maintenance of the cranes, helping Associated Terminals maintain operational continuity.

As electrification and automation reshape the cargo sector, the deployment of the CBG 500 E on the Mississippi River may serve as a model for sustainable transshipment in inland waterways. The project showcases how modern engineering and environmental priorities can converge to transform river-based logistics.