Franna Introduces AT44 US as Its Largest Pick-and-Carry Crane for North America

30-Second Takeaway

Australian crane manufacturer Franna has launched the AT44 US, its largest and most powerful pick-and-carry crane to date, for the North American market. The 44-tonne crane combines high lifting capacity, advanced safety technology, and compact manoeuvrability, expanding Franna’s growing portfolio of cranes designed specifically for North America.

Franna Expands North American Product Range

Franna, the Australian manufacturer of pick-and-carry cranes, has introduced the AT44 US, its latest and most powerful model for the North American market.

Featuring patented safety technologies designed to transform operator interaction with the crane, the AT44 US enhances situational awareness and control while delivering strong power and mobility for higher-capacity lifting applications.

Largest Pick-and-Carry Crane in the Franna Lineup

The AT44 US is the largest pick-and-carry crane in Franna’s product range and has been purpose-designed for higher capacity lifting.

Its three-axle configuration allows the crane to carry the additional counterweight required for its 44-ton rated capacity, while maintaining low axle weights during site or road travel.

This configuration supports efficient transport and operation across varied jobsite conditions.

Advanced Mobility and Precision Positioning

An innovative control system allows operators to raise the third axle, reducing the turning circle and improving manoeuvrability. The crane can also articulate while stationary, enabling precise load placement on tight and congested job sites.

These features allow the AT44 US to deliver high lifting performance without sacrificing control or site efficiency.

High Capacity and Emissions-Compliant Powertrain

The AT44 US delivers a maximum lifting capacity of 44 US tons at a 3 ft 7 in radius, with a maximum hook height of 62 ft.

Power is provided by a 308-horsepower Mercedes engine, compliant with EPA Tier 4 Final and European Stage V emissions standards, paired with a smooth-shifting Allison 6-speed automatic transmission for reliable performance and regulatory compliance.

Operator Comfort, Handling, and Durability

Designed to B30.5 standards, the crane features a full-width isolated cabin that enhances visibility and operator comfort. Additional features include:

• Traction control

• Hydro-pneumatic suspension for improved handling

• A high-strength boom engineered for durability and simplified maintenance

These design elements support consistent performance in demanding industrial environments.

Patented Safety Technology Enhances Real-Time Decision Making

A key feature of the AT44 US is Franna’s patented Dynamic Load Moment Indicator (LMI) with Safety Radar.

The system continuously calculates rated capacity in real time, factoring in boom configuration, chassis articulation, pitch, and roll, even when operating on uneven terrain.

Operators receive precise, moment-by-moment feedback on available capacity.

The crane also features the patent-pending Safety Radar, which provides a visual, real-time display of the crane’s rated capacity not only for the current configuration, but for the entire working zone. This enables operators to better understand available capacity for upcoming movements and make informed lifting decisions.

Building Momentum in the North American Market

The launch of the AT44 US builds on Franna’s recent North American introductions, including the AT24 US, launched in 2023, and the more compact FR19 US, released earlier this year.

Together, these models demonstrate Franna’s commitment to developing a broad and scalable product portfolio for North American customers.

Franna Leadership Highlights Proven Reliability

Kevin Aabel, Business Development Manager for Franna North America, said:

“Roughly half of the population of mobile cranes in Australia are Frannas, any brand any capacity, and the first Franna 4WD8 machine built in 1978 is still in operation today. That speaks volumes to Franna’s versatility and reliability. The AT44 US is a game-changer for North American customers who demand higher lifting capacities without compromising on mobility or safety. By bringing the success and reliability of our Australian-proven innovations to North America, we’re confident in the value and performance these solutions will deliver for operators and businesses alike.”

About Franna

Franna is an Australian manufacturer specialising in pick-and-carry cranes, widely recognised for innovation, reliability, and operator-focused design. Franna cranes are a dominant force in the Australian lifting market and are increasingly being adopted internationally.

With decades of engineering experience, Franna continues to develop cranes that combine mobility, lifting performance, and advanced safety systems, supporting industrial, construction, and infrastructure applications worldwide.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why is the AT44 US significant for the North American market?

The AT44 US introduces a 44-ton pick-and-carry crane specifically configured to meet North American regulatory and operational requirements, offering higher lifting capacity while retaining compact mobility.

How does the three-axle design improve performance?

The three-axle configuration allows additional counterweight to be carried while maintaining low axle loads, improving travel efficiency and enabling higher rated capacity without sacrificing manoeuvrability.

What makes the AT44 US different from traditional mobile cranes?

Unlike conventional mobile cranes, the AT44 US is designed for pick-and-carry operations, allowing loads to be lifted, transported, and precisely positioned without outriggers.

How does the Dynamic LMI with Safety Radar improve safety?

The system provides continuous real-time capacity calculations and visual feedback across the entire working zone, helping operators anticipate capacity limits before repositioning or lifting.

How does the AT44 US fit into Franna’s broader North American strategy?

The AT44 US complements the AT24 US and FR19 US, expanding Franna’s North American lineup to cover compact, mid-range, and higher-capacity pick-and-carry applications.