Ainscough Takes Delivery of First Liebherr LTM 1650-8.1 All-Terrain Crane in the UK
- Meagan Wood
- May 12, 2021
- 3 min read
Updated: Jan 12
30-Second Takeaway
Ainscough Crane Hire has taken delivery of the first Liebherr LTM 1650-8.1 all-terrain crane in the UK, introducing a 700-tonne-class mobile crane capable of delivering exceptional reach, lifting performance, and improved efficiency. Equipped with advanced Liebherr technologies and a Stage V engine, the new crane expands heavy-lift opportunities across the UK while supporting more sustainable construction practices.
UK First for the Liebherr LTM 1650-8.1
Ainscough Crane Hire, the UK’s largest crane rental company, has become the first operator in the country to take delivery of the Liebherr LTM 1650-8.1 all-terrain crane.
Unveiled at bauma 2019, the eight-axle LTM 1650-8.1 replaces the 500-tonne LTM 1500-8.1, delivering significant improvements in lifting capacity, reach, and rigging efficiency.
High-Capacity Performance and Extended Reach
The LTM 1650-8.1 is designed to handle demanding heavy-lift applications across infrastructure, energy, and industrial sectors.
Key specifications include:
700-tonne lifting capacity
80-metre main boom
Luffing jib ranging from 21 to 91 metres
Y-guying system for increased lifting performance
Maximum hook height of 151 metres
Maximum working radius of 112 metres
Compared with its predecessor, the crane offers capacity increases of 15–20 percent while also delivering faster rigging times, improving overall project efficiency.
Advanced Technology and Stage V Powertrain
The LTM 1650-8.1 is powered by a Stage V diesel engine and incorporates Liebherr’s latest
efficiency technologies, including:
ECOdrive
ECOmode
VarioBase
VarioBallast
These systems help reduce fuel consumption, noise, and emissions, while enhancing operational safety and flexibility on site.
Ainscough Leadership Perspective
Commenting on the arrival of the crane, Ainscough Commercial Director Derek Gow said:
“The LTM 1650-8.1 is a highly impressive crane, and its arrival in the UK opens new opportunities for lifts in this country. Our crane investment programme will enhance the service we’re able to provide our customers in a wide variety of sectors across the country as we look to support the recovery effort from the pandemic.”
He added:
“Green technology is of great importance both for ourselves and our clients as we look towards reducing our carbon emissions as an industry. The new crane’s Stage V engine will allow us to engage in eco-friendly construction practices and help our clients deliver ambitious and vital environmental strategies.”
Supporting Complex Lifts Across the UK
The introduction of the LTM 1650-8.1 strengthens Ainscough’s ability to support complex, high-capacity lifts nationwide, particularly in sectors requiring extreme reach and precision.
As the first UK operator of this model, Ainscough further reinforces its position at the forefront of mobile crane innovation.
About Ainscough Crane Hire
Ainscough Crane Hire is the UK’s largest crane rental company, operating a fleet of more than 400 cranes from 30 depots across the UK. The company provides lifting solutions for construction, infrastructure, industrial, and heavy-lift projects nationwide.
Through continued investment in advanced crane technology, Ainscough supports customers with safe, efficient, and sustainable lifting solutions.
🔗 Website: https://www.ainscough.co.uk
About Liebherr
Liebherr is a global leader in the design and manufacture of mobile cranes, crawler cranes, and heavy lifting equipment. Renowned for engineering excellence, innovation, and reliability, Liebherr continues to set benchmarks in performance, efficiency, and sustainability.
The LTM 1650-8.1 represents one of the most powerful all-terrain cranes available worldwide, combining high lifting capacity with advanced mobility and efficiency technologies.
🔗 Website: https://www.liebherr.com
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes this crane significant for the UK market?
This is the first Liebherr LTM 1650-8.1 all-terrain crane delivered in the UK, offering 700-tonne lifting capacity and exceptional reach.
How does the LTM 1650-8.1 compare to its predecessor?
It offers 15–20% higher lifting capacity, greater reach, and faster rigging times compared with the LTM 1500-8.1.
What industries will benefit from this crane?
The crane supports infrastructure, energy, industrial, and heavy construction projects requiring high lifting capacity and long reach.
How does the crane support sustainability goals?
The Stage V engine, combined with ECOdrive and ECOmode, reduces fuel consumption, noise, and emissions.
How large is Ainscough’s fleet?
Ainscough operates over 400 cranes from 30 depots across the UK.
