Liebherr Introduces the MK 120-5.1E Mobile Construction Crane
- Meagan Wood
- Mar 20, 2025
- 3 min read
Updated: Jan 1
30-Second Takeaway
The Liebherr MK 120-5.1E expands Liebherr’s mobile construction crane lineup, bridging the gap between the MK 88-4.1 and MK 140-5.1. Featuring a 52 m jib, 2.1 t tip load, five-axle mobility, and hybrid-electric operation, the MK 120-5.1E is designed for urban construction, infrastructure projects, and low-emission job sites.
Filling the Gap in Liebherr’s Mobile Construction Crane Range
With the introduction of the MK 120-5.1E, Liebherr continues to strengthen its position in the mobile tower crane market. Strategically positioned between the 4-axle MK 88-4.1 and the 5-axle MK 140-5.1, the new model delivers enhanced reach and lifting capacity while maintaining compact dimensions and excellent maneuverability.
The MK 120-5.1E is engineered to meet the increasing demand for flexible, efficient, and environmentally responsible lifting solutions, particularly in dense urban environments.
Key Features of the Liebherr MK 120-5.1E
Long Jib and Strong Lifting Capacity
The 52 m jib provides excellent reach, while the 2.1-tonne tip load ensures reliable lifting performance for steel structures, prefabricated elements, and building materials at height.
Compact and Agile Design
With a small turning radius, the MK 120-5.1E is ideally suited for narrow streets, tight intersections, and confined urban job sites, allowing easy positioning even in restricted areas.
Liebherr Tower Crane Operating System (TC-OS)
The crane is equipped with the Liebherr Tower Crane Operating System (TC-OS), featuring a customisable 12-inch touchscreen display. Operators can select split-screen or full-screen layouts to tailor information visibility and enhance operational efficiency.
Optional Smaller Load Hook
For operations in extremely tight spaces, an optional compact load hook enables precise load handling between buildings and scaffolding. The hook can be exchanged on-site within minutes while maintaining the same lifting capacity as the standard hook.
Efficiency, Comfort, and Sustainability Technologies
ECOmode
ECOmode automatically optimises engine speed based on the operator’s selected working
speed, reducing fuel consumption and noise emissions during crane operations.
ECOdrive
ECOdrive improves driving comfort and reduces fuel usage by lowering engine speed and enabling faster gear shifts. This enhances traction off-road and efficiency during road travel.
Hillstart-Aid
Hillstart-Aid allows smooth and safe starts on inclines, preventing rollback and improving overall driving safety.
HVO Ready
The MK 120-5.1E is fully HVO-compatible, enabling up to 90% lower CO₂ emissions when operating with hydrotreated vegetable oil fuel.
Zero-Emission Operation
When crane functions are powered by the electric motor, the MK 120-5.1E operates with zero CO₂ emissions, making it ideal for emission-restricted zones and environmentally sensitive projects.
Market Reception and Availability
The MK 120-5.1E has already generated strong interest within the industry. Zaugg AG Rohrbach (Switzerland) has highlighted the crane’s jib length, lifting capacity, and flexibility as a perfect match for its customers’ construction needs.
Deliveries are scheduled to begin in mid-2025, further expanding Liebherr’s portfolio of mobile construction cranes.
About Liebherr-Werk Ehingen GmbH
Liebherr-Werk Ehingen GmbH is a leading manufacturer of mobile and crawler cranes. Its product range extends from 35-tonne mobile cranes to heavy-duty cranes with lifting capacities of up to 1,200 tonnes. With a global service network and more than 5,000 employees at the Ehingen site, Liebherr ensures high availability, reliability, and innovation across all crane segments.
About the Liebherr Group
The Liebherr Group is a family-owned technology company founded in 1949 by Hans Liebherr. Operating more than 150 companies worldwide, Liebherr develops and manufactures construction equipment, mining machinery, aerospace systems, and industrial solutions. In 2024, the group employed over 50,000 people and generated revenues exceeding €14 billion.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Liebherr MK 120-5.1E?
The MK 120-5.1E is a five-axle mobile construction crane positioned between the MK 88-4.1 and MK 140-5.1, offering strong lifting capacity and compact mobility.
What is the maximum jib length of the MK 120-5.1E?
The crane features a 52-metre jib.
How much can the MK 120-5.1E lift at the jib head?It can lift up to 2,100 kg at the jib head.
Does the MK 120-5.1E support electric operation?
Yes. The crane supports electric-powered crane operations, enabling zero-emission lifting.
Is the MK 120-5.1E compatible with HVO fuel?
Yes. The crane is HVO-ready, allowing up to 90% CO₂ reduction when using HVO fuel.
When will the MK 120-5.1E be available?
Deliveries are expected to begin in mid-2025.
