Liebherr-Werk Nenzing Converts to HVO Fuel to Cut CO₂ Emissions in Crane Production
- Meagan Wood
- Nov 22, 2024
- 3 min read
Updated: Jan 14
30 Second Takeaway
Since August 2024, Liebherr-Werk Nenzing GmbH has converted its production operations to HVO fuel, replacing fossil diesel in the machines it manufactures and operates. The switch to Hydrotreated Vegetable Oil (HVO) reduces direct CO₂ emissions at the Austrian site by approximately 20 per cent, while extending emissions reductions into the logistics supply chain through HVO-powered transport operations.
HVO fuel introduced across production at Liebherr-Werk Nenzing
Liebherr-Werk Nenzing GmbH, based in Nenzing, Austria, has transitioned to HVO fuel for the machines produced and operated at its manufacturing facility. The conversion has been in effect since August 2024 and represents a significant step toward reducing greenhouse gas emissions associated with crane and construction machinery production.
Unlike fossil diesel, HVO fuel is largely CO₂-neutral during combustion and can be used directly in conventional combustion engines without modification. This allows existing machinery to operate immediately with reduced emissions.
What is HVO fuel and how it reduces emissions
HVO (Hydrotreated Vegetable Oil) is a synthetically produced fuel derived primarily from vegetable oils, animal fats, and waste oils from the food industry. These raw materials are converted into hydrocarbons through a hydrogen treatment process.
The HVO fuel used at Liebherr’s Nenzing site is supplied by Neste and is free from palm oil. Compared to conventional diesel, this fuel can reduce CO₂ emissions by up to 90 per cent during combustion, depending on the application and blending ratio.
At the Nenzing facility, the conversion to HVO fuel is expected to:
Save approximately 300,000 litres of diesel per year
Reduce CO₂ emissions by around 810 tonnes annually
Deliver a 20 per cent reduction in direct site emissions
Because HVO can be mixed with fossil diesel in any proportion, emissions savings increase as the HVO share in the fuel mix rises.
HVO in logistics extends emissions reduction to supply chain
In addition to production operations, Liebherr-Werk Nenzing GmbH has extended the use of HVO fuel into its logistics activities. Since early August 2024, all transport operations serving the site have been carried out by a Vorarlberg-based transport company using HVO-powered vehicles.
This change significantly reduces emissions associated with inbound and outbound logistics, delivering:
A 23 per cent reduction in transport-related emissions
Savings of approximately 3,500 tonnes of CO₂
By converting both production equipment and transport operations, the Nenzing site is addressing emissions across multiple stages of its operational footprint.
HVO compatibility across Liebherr machine fleets
A key advantage of HVO fuel is its compatibility with conventional combustion engines, allowing immediate deployment across a wide range of machinery. As a result, most Liebherr machines in the global fleet can operate with HVO fuel without technical modification.
This compatibility supports broader adoption of low-emission fuels across construction sites, industrial operations, and logistics networks where full electrification may not yet be feasible.
About Liebherr-Werk Nenzing GmbH
Liebherr-Werk Nenzing GmbH, located in the Austrian Alps, specialises in the development and production of construction machinery for demanding applications. The site manufactures crawler cranes, hydraulic rope excavators, and piling and drilling rigs, supplying customers worldwide.
The Nenzing facility plays a central role in Liebherr’s crawler crane production and supports ongoing development of digital solutions and services for modern construction sites. The transition to HVO fuel reflects site-level initiatives aimed at reducing operational emissions while maintaining production efficiency.
About Neste
Neste develops renewable fuels and circular raw materials using waste-based and renewable feedstocks. The company focuses on transforming waste oils and residues into renewable diesel, sustainable aviation fuel, and circular solutions that support emissions reduction across transport, industry, and logistics sectors.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is HVO fuel?
HVO (Hydrotreated Vegetable Oil) is a renewable fuel produced from vegetable oils, animal fats, and waste oils, offering significantly lower CO₂ emissions than fossil diesel.
Why did Liebherr-Werk Nenzing switch to HVO fuel?
The conversion reduces direct CO₂ emissions, lowers fossil fuel consumption, and allows existing machinery to operate with reduced environmental impact.
How much CO₂ does the conversion save?
The switch saves approximately 810 tonnes of CO₂ per year at the Nenzing site, equating to a 20 per cent reduction in direct emissions.
Can HVO be used in conventional diesel engines?
Yes. HVO fuel can be used in standard combustion engines and mixed with fossil diesel in any ratio.
How does HVO affect logistics emissions?
Using HVO-powered transport vehicles reduces logistics-related emissions by around 23 per cent, saving approximately 3,500 tonnes of CO₂.logy to transform waste and other resources into renewable fuels and circular raw materials; helping you act now, to meet your sustainability goals.
