The largest fleet of Hitachi mining equipment in Europe has proved to be one of the vital ingredients in the success of Terrafame’s nickel-cobalt-zinc mine in Sotkamo, Finland. The site at Kuusilampi is home to Europe’s most significant nickel and cobalt ore reserves, as well as three Hitachi ultra-large excavators and 16 rigid dump trucks. The reliable orange machines are being used to dig, load and haul the total designed mining volume of 52 million tonnes per year.

In recent years, Terrafame has gained a strong reputation for producing high-purity nickel and cobalt sulphates that are used as battery chemicals for electric vehicles. To continue to meet increasing demand for its raw materials from European automakers and battery manufacturers, the company has invested in expanding production capacity while enhancing efficiency. In addition, its primary focus for growth is new products, with battery grade nickel, cobalt and copper critical and strategic raw materials for the EU’s green transition.

Long-term support

To achieve its future targets and ambitions, Terrafame has also been strengthening its relationships with Hitachi Construction Machinery (Europe) NV (HCME) and its authorised dealer in Finland, Rotator since 2015. The first Hitachi rigid dump trucks and ultra-large excavators were delivered to the mine’s previous operator in 2008, and Rotator’s on-site parts and technical support team have been responsible for maintenance and service ever since.

Today the Terrafame fleet includes two EX3600-7 excavators (delivered in 2022 and 2023, now with 20,000 and 14,000 hours respectively) and one EX3600-6 (2018, over 40,000 hours). The three machines are used for loading the blasted materials into the 16 Hitachi dump trucks – eight EH3500AC-3s (2022-2024, 11,000-19,000 hours) and eight EH3500ACIIs (2009-2017, 52,000-82,000) – in four to five passes.

High utilisation and availability

The biggest challenge facing the Kuusilampi open-pit mine is the freezing cold and wet weather conditions, as Antti Lakkala, Terrafame’s Head of Production – Mining, explains: “With rain, winter and hard frost, our working conditions change all year round. It challenges our road maintenance and therefore the use of dump truck tyres, and usability of the dump trucks. Cold winters also challenge us with the use of the excavators.

“Rotator and Hitachi have met our challenges, and high utilisation and availability are being achieved. We have aimed for better efficiency with the dump trucks and large excavators, and the goal is to increase loading capacity and utilisation. We have dump trucks and loading excavators of various ages, but our operators generally prefer newer equipment – they like the tools they operate with.”

Safe and comfortable

One of Terrafame’s most experienced operators is Kosti Jokelainen, who has driven both the EH3500AC3 and EH3500ACII since 2015: “I think the new cab is more spacious and larger than the previous truck. It feels more comfortable with being less cramped, and safer with the stronger pillars. The gear lever and the dump lever are better, much more convenient, and easy to use. The most useful feature is the retarder button – it’s incredibly important that you can slow it down with a button.”

Similarly, Aki Anttonen has been a Terrafame operator for ten years: “I operate an excavator the size of an apartment block, the best that money can buy! The cab is very comfortable in the new machines, even after 12 hours of operation. The most important feature I like about my working environment is that it is quiet and no dust can get in there. The cameras are also important when visibility to the sides and rear is non-existent in places. Filling the bucket is easy and there are some differences from the old machine, such as the hydraulics, and the digging power is significantly higher.”

Trust through cooperation

In 2025, the Kolmisoppi deposit – part of Terrafame’s wider resource base – was granted strategic project status under the EU’s Critical Raw Materials Act (CRMA) and there are plans to open this deposit by 2028. Together with the successful cooperation with Rotator, and the proven high utilisation, reliability and uptime of the Hitachi fleet, the future looks bright for the integrated mine and battery chemicals plant.

“Over the years we have gained extensive experience with the same equipment, our operating conditions and our challenges,” says Antti. “It has brought know-how on both sides, as well as trust through cooperation. It is vital that the teams work closely together, and I can see that this will be even better in the future. In this way, we are developing in the right direction.”

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• A Liebherr mobile harbour crane of type LHM 800, configured for demanding project cargo and heavy-lift operations, is strengthening lifting performance in one of Europe’s leading logistics hubs
• Broekman Logistics, Rotterdam-based and a long-standing Liebherr partner, continues its strategic development as a specialised provider of breakbulk, industrial and project cargo logistics
• The project reflects close engineering collaboration and marks an impressive milestone in expanding terminal capabilities within the Port of Rotterdam

At Broekman Project Services’ heavy lift terminal, direct quayside access, indoor heavy-lift halls and project logistics expertise create a tightly integrated operation. Liebherr’s tailored engineering supports that model with low ground pressure, high lifting performance and operational flexibility for complex cargo requirements.

Rostock (Germany), June 2026 – A new heavyweight for Broekman Logistics’ quayside in Rotterdam. The new crane is one of Liebherr’s flagship mobile harbour crane models, offering a lifting capacity of up to 308 tonnes, and is designed for demanding cargo profiles. For this terminal, the crane has been engineered with custom supporting pads to meet the specific conditions of the quay. Its configuration is tailored for project cargoes and heavy lifts, where high load charts, stability and precision handling are critical. As part of the LHM range, the crane also benefits from Liebherr’s established crane architecture and mobility, allowing flexible deployment across the terminal. With the LHM 800, which was nicknamed ‘Titan 1,’ Broekman is strengthening its terminal capabilities while adding a new level of lifting performance to Rotterdam’s maritime operations.

A strategic investment for Rotterdam’s industrial logistics chain

Broekman Logistics has deep roots in Rotterdam and a long record in the port, having started as an independent shipping agent in 1960 before developing into a broader end-to-end logistics provider. Today, the company combines forwarding, contract logistics, breakbulk terminals and technical services, with a strong focus on machinery, industrial cargo and international supply chains. Its Rotterdam breakbulk activities include direct vessel handling, heavy-lift storage, battery energy storage systems storage, marshalling and value-added services for oversized and out-of-gauge cargo. This operational profile makes high-capacity lifting equipment a key asset for daily terminal work and for the longer-term development of project cargo business.

The LHM 800 gives us the lifting performance and flexibility to handle larger and more complex cargo at our quayside,’ says Rob van Dijk, Director Terminal & Shipping at Broekman Logistics.

‘Combined with our indoor lifting capacity of 700 tonnes by overhead crane, it strengthens our position as a heavy-lift specialist in Rotterdam.’

‘The crane fits Broekman Logistics’ terminal ambitions and reflects the strong cooperation with Liebherr, where we worked together to translate quay requirements into a practical solution.’

The investment also fits within a broader economic context. The Port of Rotterdam handles approximately 428.4 million tonnes of cargo annually, with breakbulk and project cargo remaining an important part of that system.

As Rotterdam continues to invest in capacity, flexibility and industrial connectivity, the additional heavy-lift capability at Broekman supports local operational resilience. It also improves supply chain efficiency for industrial customers in the Netherlands, Germany and beyond.

Engineering precision for demanding ground conditions

From an engineering perspective, this project required careful coordination across all parties involved. The combination of high lifting performance and low ground loading called for a tailored support arrangement, with custom pads developed to suit the quay structure and operating environment. Site-adapted load distribution is an important enabler for high-capacity crane deployment, especially where berth characteristics or terminal layouts impose tight structural parameters. The result is a configuration that preserves the crane’s operational strength while answering the practical demands of the installation site. That balance is particularly relevant for terminals handling irregular cargo dimensions, concentrated loads and complex lift planning.

Liebherr supports such projects through a worldwide maritime service organisation with more than 450 service engineers, as well as sales and service structures around the world. For operators, that framework provides access to technical support, field service, inspections, upgrades and parts availability across the crane lifecycle, with short response times and continuity of expertise.

‘This project shows what can be achieved when a customer’s operational vision is matched by focused engineering and close cooperation,’ said Andreas Ritschel, General Manager Sales Mobile Harbour cranes at Liebherr-Rostock GmbH. ‘We are proud to place this crane on Broekman’s quayside and to deliver a solution that fulfils the technical requirements of the site while supporting the customer’s next stage of growth.’

For Rotterdam, the project stands as a measured but meaningful addition to terminal capability. For Broekman, it creates room for larger lifts, broader cargo opportunities and continued development within a highly competitive port environment. For Liebherr, it reflects the value of adapting proven crane technology to the realities of individual terminals and their infrastructure. Together, those elements form a partnership grounded in practical performance, long-term trust and a clear view of where industrial port logistics is heading next.

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• Liebherr supplies an RL 4600 offshore crane to Samsung Heavy Industries in South Korea for integration into a new floating liquefied natural gas (FLNG) production unit
• Designed for reliable lifting operations in harsh offshore conditions, the RL 4600 will ultimately operate in British Columbia, Canada
• The delivery to the South Korean yard is scheduled for summer 2026

Samsung Heavy Industries has chosen the RL 4600 for integration into the Cedar LNG floating facility. The crane’s lifting capacity, precision, and durability make it ideal for demanding offshore operations, ensuring reliable performance once the FLNG unit is operating off the coast of Canada.

Rostock (Germany), June 2026 – Offshore lifting strength for the Canadian coast. Liebherr will equip Samsung Heavy Industries (SHI) FLNG in South Korea with an RL 4600 offshore crane offering a maximum lifting capacity of 40 tonnes and a maximum main hoist outreach of 28 metres. Integrated into the floating LNG production unit for the Cedar LNG project in British Columbia, Canada, the crane ensures dependable functionality in offshore environments and supports efficient operations throughout the FLNG lifecycle. By relying entirely on renewable power, the Cedar LNG is positioned to become one of the world’s FLNG facilities with the lowest carbon footprint.

The RL offshore crane series has long been recognised for its reliability, robust design, and suitability for demanding marine environments. These qualities also characterise the RL 4600 selected by SHI for the Cedar LNG project. ‘We are proud to provide our RL 4600 for this important FLNG development and to extend our market footprint in Canada,’ says Oliver Odebrecht, Sales Manager General Purpose Offshore Cranes at Liebherr in Rostock, Germany. ‘The RL series has proven its strength across a wide range of applications, and the RL 4600 continues this legacy with consistent performance and the robust capability required for modern offshore operations.’

Compact design for demanding offshore operations

Beyond its lifting performance, the RL 4600 also stands out through its compact and installation-friendly design. The crane’s low overall height and minimal tail swing allow shipyards and operators to integrate it efficiently, even where space is restricted. This makes the RL 4600 particularly suitable for floating units, where deck layout and accessibility are decisive factors. Central to the crane’s architecture lies the slewing column, which houses the main drive system, central hydraulics, and the complete control technology. This integrated design reduces the number of external components and contributes to smooth operation, simplified maintenance, and enhanced durability. The development of the RL series is rooted in continuous optimisation: feedback from global offshore customers, combined with long-standing engineering experience, has shaped a crane concept that meets today’s demanding offshore standards. Robust materials, high-quality components, and a layout designed for longevity ensure that the RL 4600 achieves long service life while minimising downtime and maintenance requirements.

Complementing its mechanical design, the RL 4600 is equipped with the advanced Liebherr control system, Litronic. This modular technology enables smooth, efficient and precise crane movements, even under challenging offshore conditions. All key operating parameters, including load, radius, and system behaviour, are continuously monitored and clearly visualised for the operator. Litronic acts as the direct interface between operator and machine. It automatically adjusts speeds to the load, maintains consistent movement patterns, and reduces the need for manual intervention. Thanks to its modular setup, additional functions can be integrated as needed, ensuring long-term performance and operational efficiency.

Built for harsh marine environments, all components are designed to perform reliably across wide temperature ranges and resist shock, moisture, and saline air. A durable multi-layer coating further protects the crane from the demanding offshore climate.

Once the RL 4600 enters service in Canadian waters, Liebherr Canada will provide on-site maintenance and technical support. With a focus on short response times, expert assistance, and high spare-parts availability, the local organisation ensures that operators benefit from maximum crane uptime throughout the entire lifecycle. This service approach reflects the commitment of Liebherr to support customers with reliable, tailored solutions long after the equipment has left the production facility.

Smooth installation supported by Liebherr Korea

Before the crane reaches its final destination, Liebherr Korea will oversee the installation and commissioning process at SHI. Their close cooperation with the shipyard ensures a seamless integration of the RL 4600 into the floating LNG unit, supporting an efficient project schedule and a smooth transition into operation. ‘The RL 4600 is an impressive piece of equipment, and we value the close collaboration with SHI on this project,’ says Eddie Park, Divisional Manager at Liebherr Korea.

‘We are proud to contribute our expertise to such a significant development and look forward to seeing the crane play a key role in Canada’s offshore operations.’

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• With a lifting capacity of 104 tonnes and a maximum outreach of 61 metres, the Liebherr LHM 600 is now the largest mobile harbour crane operating in Colombia
• Compania de Puertos Asociados S.A., the country’s only multipurpose port network with terminals on both Atlantic and Pacific coastlines, continues to expand capacity at its Caribbean gateway
• Commissioned at the Port of Cartagena, the crane supports container operations at a terminal handling up to 250,000 TEUs annually across four berthing positions

As Colombia’s foreign trade grows and cargo mixes evolve, ports are focusing on equipment that extends handling capability within existing infrastructure. The introduction of a high-capacity Liebherr mobile harbour crane at Cartagena reflects a measured approach to accommodating larger vessels and changing operational demands without major structural expansion.

Rostock (Germany), June 2026 – A new operational reference point for Colombian ports. Compas has placed an LHM 600 into service at its Cartagena terminal to reinforce container-handling capability within one of the country’s most active maritime zones. The crane’s 61-metre outreach allows it to work across wider container vessels calling at the terminal, while its 104-tonne lifting capacity supports heavy container moves and twin-lift operations where required. Mounted on a mobile undercarriage, the crane can be reallocated between berths as traffic patterns change. This flexibility is particularly relevant at a multipurpose terminal handling containers alongside bulk, project and refrigerated cargo.

Supporting Cartagena’s role in national and regional trade

Located in one of Colombia’s most strategically positioned port areas, Compas Cartagena functions as a critical connection point between domestic supply chains and international shipping routes. The terminal combines container operations with bulk and general cargo handling, supported by specialised infrastructure including certified cold storage facilities and non-intrusive inspection systems capable of scanning up to 150 containers per hour. Introducing higher-capacity quay handling equipment helps balance these diverse operational requirements without compromising throughput or safety.

‘This investment strengthens our ability to serve shipping lines and cargo owners more reliably as trade volumes continue to evolve,’ a Compas representative said. ‘By expanding handling capacity within our existing footprint, we are reinforcing Cartagena’s role as a stable and efficient gateway for Colombian foreign trade.’

The arrival of the crane also supports smoother vessel turnaround during peak periods, reducing operational bottlenecks and supporting consistent cargo flows through the Colombian Caribbean.

Mobile harbour crane versatility aligned with long-term operations

At Compas Cartagena, where four berths support container, bulk, refrigerated and project cargo alongside one another, operational sequencing is critical. The LHM 600 adds an additional layer of planning certainty by allowing higher-capacity container moves to be scheduled without disrupting parallel cargo flows. This supports more consistent berth utilisation and aligns crane performance with the terminal’s digital operating systems and inspection infrastructure.

The crane is supported by Liebherr’s regional sales and service organisation, ensuring access to local technical expertise, spare parts and scheduled maintenance. This framework is designed to maintain predictable crane availability while supporting the terminal’s continuous operations.

‘Our objective is to deliver equipment that integrates into complex port environments and supports steady, long-term performance,’ Andreas Ritschel, General Manager Sales Mobile Harbour Cranes at Liebherr-Rostock GmbH noted. ‘In Cartagena, this means enabling flexible container handling while respecting the operational realities of a multipurpose terminal.’

For Colombia, where ports serve not only as trade gateways but as economic stabilisers for regional industries, incremental improvements at established terminals often deliver the greatest long-term value. The commissioning of the LHM 600 at Cartagena reflects a focus on strengthening operational continuity at a proven hub, reinforcing the port’s role in supporting exports, imports and supply chain reliability across the country.

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[Neponset, IL, USA] – The global leader in bulk material handling solutions, Martin Engineering, has launched a transformative digital system that unlocks opportunities to maximise the efficiency, reliability and performance of industrial air cannons.

The N2® Air Cannon Intelligence (ACI) System gives operators of cement plants and other large-scale, high-temperature facilities unprecedented insight into how their air cannons are performing – enabling entire installations to be optimised like never before.

Martin’s N2® ACI sensor measures air cannon firing characteristics.

Part of Martin’s N2® Enhanced remote monitoring portfolio, ACI represents the biggest technological advancement since air cannons were first introduced by Martin Engineering over half a century ago to improve material flow through raw mills, preheaters, kiln feeds, coolers, silos, chutes and other process vessels.

Developed at Martin’s Center for Innovation in Neponset, Illinois, N2® ACI has been refined during two years of real-world trials with leading cement producers in the USA as well as Brazil, France, Turkey and the UK.  These test installations have helped Martin’s R&D team to fine-tune the platform’s monitoring algorithms, ensuring useability and demonstrable operational benefits in the most demanding industrial settings.

In major bulk processing plants, arrays of air cannons provide carefully sequenced blasts of compressed air to dislodge material clinging to the inner walls of process vessels – especially important for fine, sticky, moisture-rich feedstocks and fuels.  Industrial operations like cement plants can have well over a hundred cannons throughout the process.  But the enclosed nature of such vessels means that in the past it has been virtually impossible to know if air cannons are performing as expected to keep the inner walls clear of buildups – unless each is inspected manually during a full plant shutdown.

The N2® ACI system is easily retrofitted to Martin® air cannons (Hurricane, Typhoon, Tornado, XHV, and Passport valve cannons).

Now, with N2® ACI operators have access to continuous monitoring and detailed performance analytics through a secure web-based dashboard and mobile interface. Fitted to each air cannon on a plant, the ACI sensor measures firing characteristics from which underlying problems can be diagnosed. That means maintenance issues can be fixed before they result in unscheduled downtime and, crucially, air cannon arrays can be modified for optimum performance.

Brad Pronschinske, Global Air Cannon Product Manager for Martin Engineering said:

“Air cannons have been around for more than 50 years, but until now there has been no reliable way for plant operators to understand how effectively they are actually performing as a sequence.

“With ACI we’re not just trying to tell plant operators whether a cannon fired or not. We’re helping them operate more efficiently by interpreting data from the sensors so they can improve system performance, for example by adjusting firing sequences and improving installation positioning, as well as better manage preventive maintenance. Potential problems can be identified earlier, reducing unnecessary downtime and helping maintenance teams make smart decisions to optimise their systems.”

Traditional air cannon inspection methods often require maintenance personnel to manually trigger systems while visually observing pressure gauges.  However, partial nozzle blockages and performance degradation can go unnoticed for long periods, resulting in reduced effectiveness, excessive compressed air and energy consumption, and increased risk of production interruptions.

Customer trials have also demonstrated important safety benefits. By reducing the need for manual inspections and emergency cleanout procedures, the system helps minimise worker exposure to hazardous environments, confined spaces and high-temperature process areas.  Reports from customer evaluations also highlighted reductions in manual water jetting, fewer emergency interventions and improved understanding of when maintenance is genuinely required.

The system operates through wireless battery-powered nodes mounted directly to air cannons, communicating via long-range radio frequency to a single cellular gateway capable of supporting more than 1,000 sensors across a site.  Because ACI operates independently of plant wi-fi or control networks, installation can typically be completed without requiring a plant shutdown.

Martin says the platform is also designed to support long-term reliability and optimisation strategies by maintaining detailed historical records for every monitored cannon, including service events, firing trends and component performance data.

Pronschinske added:

“Many customers simply don’t have the time or resources to continuously monitor air cannon performance.  ACI gives them actionable information automatically, helping maintenance teams focus attention where it’s actually needed to keep critical material flow systems operating reliably.  By turning traditional air cannons into intelligent, connected assets, plants can move from reactive maintenance to proactive performance management.

Martin’s N2® Air Cannon Intelligence System provides detailed performance data enabling operators to make smart decisions to optimise the flow of materials.

“ACI also gives maintenance teams early visibility into cannon performance, allowing them to identify inefficiencies, improve firing sequences and address possible problems before they impact production.  The technology helps facilities operate more reliably and efficiently, while reducing wasted labour, compressed air consumption and unnecessary wear on critical equipment across demanding bulk material handling applications. Ultimately ACI helps optimise process flow, reduce costly unplanned downtime and improve workplace safety by limiting the need for manual inspections.

The N2® ACI System will be introduced throughout the Martin network over the coming months and years, with further installations already underway.

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• Liebherr secures order for seven STS cranes for Sparrows Point Container Terminal in Baltimore
• Project supports one of the largest port redevelopment projects in the United States
• Strengthens Liebherr’s leading position in the US and across the East Coast

Killarney (Ireland), June 2026 – Liebherr has secured an order for seven ship-to-shore (STS) gantry cranes from Tradepoint Atlantic / TiL Terminal LLC for the Sparrows Point Container Terminal (SPCT) in Baltimore, USA. The project represents a major milestone in the continued growth of Liebherr’s presence in the United States and further strengthens its position across the East Coast.

The Sparrows Point Container Terminal is being developed by Tradepoint Atlantic in partnership with Terminal Investment Limited (TiL) at the Port of Baltimore. The 168-acre development marks a major step in the transformation of the former Bethlehem Steel site into a modern global logistics hub and is expected to increase the port’s container handling capacity by approximately 70 percent, while generating significant economic activity and employment in the region.

Handling the largest vessels of today and tomorrow

The seven STS cranes supplied by Liebherr will be central to terminal operations, enabling the efficient handling of ultra-large container vessels. Designed to accommodate two vessels simultaneously, the terminal is positioned as a key gateway for global trade.

Engineered for next generation container ships, the cranes feature a 70 metre outreach, 25 metre backreach and a lift height over rail of 51 metres. This configuration allows them to service the widest vessels currently in operation while accommodating increasing vessel sizes. In addition to performance, the cranes incorporate proven control systems and robust digital architectures, supporting reliable and secure terminal operations while ensuring long-term operational confidence.

“This project will add capacity and efficiency not only for the local community, but for the wider Mid Atlantic and Midwest regions,” said Ammar Kanaan, CEO of Terminal Investment Limited (TiL). “That is why developments such as Sparrows Point are so important for the future of the US supply chain.”

“This is a landmark project, both for our customer and for Liebherr,” said Declan O’Sullivan, Managing Director – Sales at Liebherr Container Cranes Ltd. “It reflects the scale of investment and ambition behind Sparrows Point and reinforces Liebherr’s ability to deliver high-performance crane solutions for some of the most significant terminal developments underway globally.”

“We are pleased to partner with Liebherr on this important project,” said Tom Caso, Vice President at Tradepoint Atlantic. “Their experience in delivering high performance and dependable crane solutions for major terminals gives us confidence as we develop Sparrows Point into a key gateway for global trade. This project is about building for the future, and the equipment we deploy is central to achieving that ambition.”

Strong presence across the US

This order marks another step in Liebherr’s continued success in the United States. It brings the total number of STS cranes ordered for the US market since 2020 to 27, strengthening the installed base and long-standing customer relationships across the region. The award further reinforces Liebherr’s position as a leading supplier of large-scale port infrastructure projects in North America

“This project highlights the continued confidence placed in Liebherr’s expertise and technology in the United States,” said Shane Kuhlmey, Division Director – MCC at Liebherr USA, “We are proud to support the development of Sparrows Point as a next-generation container terminal and to contribute to strengthening critical supply chain infrastructure across the region.”

The Sparrows Point development is one of the largest privately financed container terminal projects in the United States, with approximately $1.2 billion invested in its development. Once completed, the facility is expected to play a key role in enhancing the competitiveness of the Port of Baltimore and strengthening its position as a major hub for international trade.

This order marks a further step in Liebherr’s long-term commitment to supporting customers across North America and delivering solutions for the next generation of container terminals.

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Telestack are excited to be back at Hillhead 2026 showcasing how our solutions maximize efficiency across your entire material handling operation.

Call by Stand E11 where the Telestack team of experts will be on hand to provide insights, answer questions, and discuss how their solutions can address specific needs and challenges.

To schedule time with our team of experts at Hillhead 2026, please use the booking link below.

Telestack are specialists in the complete design, manufacture, installation, and commissioning of mobile bulk material handling systems. 

We have a global proven record in a range of applications including ports & inland terminals, mining, quarrying, stockyard management, power stations, rail yards, steel mills, cement kilns, and many other bulk material handling industries. We offer a range of solutions and reference sites along the logistics chain from the pit to port, pit to plant, port to plant.  Click below to read more about our company, our products, and some of the exciting projects that we have been involved in.

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Hitachi Construction Machinery (Europe) NV (HCME) has appointed SMG Macchine d.o.o. to be its new authorised dealer in Croatia as of 1 July 2026. The Sesvete-based company has ten years of machine sales and after-sales service experience in the southeast European country, and has represented the reliable orange brand as a sub-dealer – on behalf of one of HCME’s Italian dealers, SCAI – since 2016.

In line with this announcement, SMG Macchine will provide customers with the complete line-up of Hitachi construction machinery as well as the Hitachi Premium Rental offering. Ideally located on the outskirts of the capital city Zagreb, it serves a variety of industry solutions, including road and general construction, forestry, infrastructure, and agriculture. Its customer base also varies, from small family-run farms to the largest construction companies in Croatia.

“The most important thing for our customers is being supplied with a high-quality machine for the right price, and which is supported with a high level of service,” says Zeljko Vranjković, CEO of SMG Macchine. While its experienced sales and service teams are based in Zagreb, in the near future the company plans to open a new branch to serve the Adriatic coast in Croatia’s second largest city, Split.

“We look forward to working with Hitachi, a brand that stands for quality, reliability and durability,” adds Josip Bakula, Procurement Manager. “The development of our company is based on continuous improvement, with education and training provided by leading equipment manufacturers, and respect for the needs of our customers. By establishing strong professional relationships with our partners, we want to build trust for long-term cooperation and our mutual benefit.”

HCME CEO and President Francesco Quaranta says, “We are proud to work more closely with SMG Macchine to continue providing customers in Croatia with our reliable orange equipment and solutions. It is an exciting time for this market, and we are confident that SMG Macchine will support us with the brand’s transition to LANDCROS next year.”

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What a week!

Over five days at our facility in Louisiana, customers, partners and industry professionals came together to experience E-Cranes in action, exchange ideas and connect with the global E-Crane team.

Thank you to everyone who joined us and helped make the 2026 edition of the E-Crane Demo Days such a success.

Take a look here >>

Throughout the week, visitors experienced live demonstrations, stepped into the operator cabin and connected directly with E-Crane engineers, operators and partners from across the industry. Ultimately, nothing replaces a hands-on experience.   Climbing the stairs and sitting down behind the controls is the best way to truly understand what an E-Crane is capable of.

Demo Days by the numbers

A special highlight was the visit of Louisiana Governor Jeff Landry, who took the controls himself and experienced E-Crane technology from the operator’s seat.

Official opening of the Gulf Coast Service Center

A key milestone during the event was the official opening of the new Gulf Coast Service Center at Port of Iberia, reinforcing E-Crane’s commitment to delivering stronger regional support, faster response times, and operational excellence for customers across the industry.

Strategically located with direct access to major inland and coastal waterways, the new facility strengthens E-Crane’s ability to support customers across the region with speed, flexibility and efficient logistics.

Strategically located with direct access to major inland and coastal waterways, the new facility strengthens E-Crane’s ability to support customers across the region with speed, flexibility and efficient logistics.

More than anything, the new Service Center reflects E-Crane’s commitment to staying close to its customers, both geographically and operationally.

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Konecranes has received an order for four 15-1200C electric forklifts from Swedishforestry group Södra. The electric forklifts will operate at two of their sites, Södra Cell Värö and Södra Cell Mörrum, both located in Sweden. The order was booked in Q1 2026, with three units scheduled for delivery in Q2 2026 and the fourth in Q3 2026.

Södra is Sweden’s largest forest owner association and a major producer of pulp, timber and bio-based products. Improving energy efficiency and electrification are key elements in reducing Scope 1 emissions in Södra’s operations, and Konecranes’ fully electric machines support these demanding material flows with zero tailpipe emissions during operation.

Since 2014, Konecranes has delivered more than 40 lift trucks to Södra across its operations. Three of the new Konecranes 15-1200C electric forklifts will be deployed to handle paper bales, while the fourth will be dedicated to timber operations. With these deliveries, Konecranes will have deployed a total of 13 electric forklifts to Södra.

“Konecranes electric forklifts meet Södra’s high standards in both operational performance and eco-efficiency. We have extensive experience working with the Konecranes team and this order continues that cooperation in support of our productivity and emission-reduction goals,” says Christer Dahlberg, Vehicle Maintenance Engineer at Södra.

The electric forklifts are supplied through Konecranes’ longtime distributor N.C. Nielsen. In addition to providing maintenance support, N.C. Nielsen’s technical expertise and knowledge of Södra’s business play an important role in the ongoing development of the company’s Konecranes fleet. The new lift trucks combine high performance with strong safety and ergonomic standards, ensuring a comfortable and efficient operator environment. They are also equipped with TRUCONNECT® Remote Monitoring, providing real-time insights to support preventive maintenance and maximize equipment uptime.

“Our close cooperation with Södra gives us valuable insight into the high performance and reliability their operations require. These electric forklifts are engineered to support heavy material flows at the mills while helping advance electrification. Together with N.C. Nielsen, we deliver solutions that strengthen daily operations and long-term customer goals,” says Daniel Sjöstrand, Sales Support Manager, Lift Trucks, Konecranes.

This agreement supports Ecolifting, Konecranes’ comprehensive step-by-step roadmap to zero tailpipe emissions that supports the decarbonization of port operations. Our solutions range from renewable diesel-powered drives, to hybrid and fully-electrified fleets, and emerging options like hydrogen, all designed to meet the needs of each customer today and for the future.

A strong focus on customers and commitment to business growth and continuous improvement make Konecranes a material handling industry leader. This is underpinned by investments in digitalization and technology, plus our work to make material flows more efficient with solutions that support the decarbonization of the economy and advance circularity and safety.

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