Electrifying the Mississippi: First All-Electric Transshipment Cranes Enter Service
30 Second Takeaway
Two all-electric Liebherr CBG 500 E transshipment cranes, mounted on next-generation barges, have entered service on the Lower Mississippi River, signalling a major step toward zero-emission bulk handling and electrified river logistics in the United States.
CBG 500 E All-Electric Transshipment Cranes on the Mississippi River
Associated Terminals and Liebherr Maritime Cranes have marked a defining moment for U.S. inland waterway logistics with the christening of two all-electric CBG 500 E transshipment cranes in New Orleans.
The cranes are the first of their kind on the Lower Mississippi River, delivering high-capacity bulk handling with zero local exhaust emissions and setting a new benchmark for sustainable river operations.
High-Capacity, Zero-Emission Bulk Handling
Each CBG 500 E crane is engineered for demanding transshipment operations, offering:
Maximum grab capacity: up to 90 tonnes in sheltered waters
Up to 65 tonnes in open water conditions
Lattice boom design with outreach of up to 50 metres
The cranes are equipped with Liebherr’s LiCaTronic energy recovery system, which captures energy generated during braking and load lowering, significantly improving operational efficiency.
Additional features include remote diagnostics and ergonomically designed operator cabins, supporting safety, reliability, and long-term performance.
Next-Generation Barges for Sustainable Operations
The two cranes are installed on Associated Terminals’ next-generation barges, purpose-built to set new standards in efficiency and sustainability.
Key features include:
Hybrid-ready power systems
Intelligent load management
Reduced fuel consumption
Keel cooling technology, minimising maintenance requirements and environmental impact
Together, the crane-barge combinations represent a fully integrated approach to cleaner, more efficient river transshipment.
A Landmark Christening in New Orleans
The christening ceremony, held on the banks of the Mississippi River, brought together hundreds of guests from the maritime sector, business, and politics.
The event symbolised the culmination of a long-term collaborative effort between Liebherr and Associated Terminals and the start of a new era in electrified river logistics.
“The christening of these cranes marks a defining moment for our operations,” said Zeljko Franks, Chief Operating Officer at Associated Terminals. “By introducing this technology on the Mississippi, we are combining performance with sustainability in a way that will benefit our customers, our communities, and the river for years to come.”
From Delivery to Full Operation
The first CBG 500 E, delivered in summer 2025, has already entered service and proven itself as a high-performing asset for bulk handling operations.
The second crane, delivered at the end of 2025, was assembled ahead of the christening and will now join its counterpart in full operation, delivering the same standard of efficiency and reliability.
Together, the installations signal a new chapter for inland waterway logistics and establish a reference point for future electrified transshipment projects across the United States.
Engineering Excellence Through Partnership
The project reflects years of close collaboration between Liebherr and Associated Terminals, aligning engineering innovation with operational and environmental objectives.
“The christening reflects what can be achieved through collaboration and forward thinking,” said Gregor Hillen, Sales Manager for Port and Transshipment Solutions at Liebherr-Rostock GmbH. “We are proud to stand alongside Associated Terminals in shaping the future of river cargo handling.”
Dedicated Liebherr service teams will continue to support the cranes throughout their lifecycle, ensuring long-term performance and reliability.
About Associated Terminals
Associated Terminals is a leading U.S. stevedoring and logistics company operating along the Lower Mississippi River. The company specialises in bulk and breakbulk cargo handling and is widely recognised for pioneering advanced transshipment infrastructure and sustainable cargo solutions.
Through continued investment in innovation, Associated Terminals plays a key role in modernising inland waterway logistics and reducing the environmental footprint of river transport.
Website: https://www.associatedterminals.com/
About Liebherr Maritime Cranes
Liebherr Maritime Cranes, part of Liebherr-International AG, designs and manufactures mobile harbour cranes, offshore cranes, and transshipment solutions for ports and waterways worldwide.
The company is a leader in electric and hybrid crane technologies, focusing on efficiency, reliability, and sustainability to support the evolving demands of global maritime logistics.
Website: https://www.liebherr.com/
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes the CBG 500 E cranes significant for the Mississippi River?
They are the first all-electric transshipment cranes to operate on the Lower Mississippi River, delivering zero local emissions while maintaining high bulk handling capacity.
What is the lifting capacity of the CBG 500 E?
The cranes can handle up to 90 tonnes in sheltered waters and 65 tonnes in open water conditions.
When did the cranes enter service?
The first crane entered service in summer 2025, while the second joined operations following the christening in early 2026.
Why are electric cranes important for inland waterways?
Electric cranes reduce emissions, improve energy efficiency, and support more sustainable logistics operations, particularly in environmentally sensitive river corridors.
