Transportes Crexell Deploys Argentina’s First Electric Crane for Oil & Gas Operations
Updated: Jan 1
30-Second Takeaway
Transportes Crexell has become the first company in Argentina’s oil and gas sector to deploy an electric crane with the Liebherr LTC 1050-3.1E. The hybrid compact crane allows low-CO₂ lifting operations while maintaining full performance, marking a major step toward electrified construction sites in the region.
Leading the Electrification of Lifting in Argentina’s Oil & Gas Sector
Transportes Crexell SA has expanded its crane fleet with five new Liebherr machines, including the LTC 1050-3.1E, making it the first electric crane operated in Argentina’s oil and gas industry. The order also includes two LTR 1220 telescopic crawler cranes, one LTR 1150, and an LTM 1250-5.1, further strengthening the company’s heavy lifting capabilities.
The 50-tonne LTC 1050-3.1E represents a strategic move toward low-emission jobsite solutions. Its hybrid drive system combines a conventional diesel engine with an electric motor, allowing crane operations to be performed electrically when site conditions and infrastructure permit.
“We want to offer our customers a low-emission, CO₂-friendly alternative for their operations,”
said Eugenio Diaz, Commercial Director at Transportes Crexell.
“The electric version of the LTC 1050-3.1E allows hybrid operation, is compact, and offers ideal lifting capacities for the work we plan to carry out.”
Hybrid Flexibility for Real-World Jobsite Conditions
While electrification in Argentina’s oil and gas industry is still in its early stages, the hybrid concept of the LTC 1050-3.1E allows Transportes Crexell to deploy the crane immediately without being limited by charging infrastructure. When electric power is available, the crane can operate with zero local emissions and reduced noise. When it is not, operators can seamlessly switch to diesel operation.
Initially, the compact 3-axle crane will be used primarily on urban construction sites and customer depots, where electric operation can be maximized. Its maneuverability and lifting capacity make it well-suited for confined environments while still meeting industrial performance demands.
A Fleet Built on Long-Term Trust with Liebherr
Headquartered in Neuquén, Transportes Crexell has been active in the oil and gas industry for nearly 30 years, providing crane services, drilling rig transport, and heavy lifting solutions. The company operates a fleet of 99 cranes, with 41 Liebherr machines already in service prior to this latest delivery.
“Liebherr has always been a cornerstone of our fleet,”
Diaz explained.
“We value not only the high quality of their products, but also the trusting partnership that connects us with Liebherr.”
In addition to oil and gas operations, Transportes Crexell also supports wind energy projects, applying the same standards of safety, reliability, and efficiency across all sectors.
About Transportes Crexell
Transportes Crexell SA is an Argentinian logistics, transport, and lifting specialist based in Neuquén. With nearly three decades of experience, the company provides crane services, drilling rig transport, heavy haulage, and specialized lifting solutions primarily for the oil and gas industry, while also supporting wind energy projects.
Operating a fleet of 99 cranes, Transportes Crexell is recognized for its early adoption of advanced lifting technologies and its commitment to safety, efficiency, and operational reliability across some of the country’s most demanding industrial environments.
Learn More🔗 https://www.transportescrexell.com.ar
About Liebherr
Liebherr-Werk Ehingen GmbH is a global leader in the design and manufacture of mobile and crawler cranes, offering lifting capacities ranging from 35 tonnes to 3,000 tonnes. The company is known for engineering innovation, high manufacturing quality, and a worldwide service network that ensures maximum crane availability.
The Liebherr Group, founded in 1949, is a family-run technology company with more than 150 companies operating across all continents. With over 50,000 employees worldwide, Liebherr delivers advanced solutions across construction machinery, mining, aerospace, maritime, and industrial sectors.
Learn More 🔗 https://www.liebherr.com
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes the LTC 1050-3.1E unique in Argentina’s oil and gas industry
?It is the first electric crane deployed in the sector, offering hybrid operation to reduce emissions without limiting jobsite flexibility.
Can the crane operate without electric infrastructure?
Yes. The hybrid design allows full diesel operation when electric power is unavailable.
Does electric operation reduce lifting performance?
No. The crane maintains full lifting capability in both diesel and electric modes.
What types of jobs is the LTC 1050-3.1E best suited for?
Urban construction sites, industrial facilities, depots, and operations where low noise and reduced emissions are advantageous.
Why is hybrid operation important for early-stage electrification markets?
It enables immediate deployment of low-emission equipment without waiting for full charging infrastructure to be established.
