Annual report 2023
January
Advanced automation sets sail
Liebherr’s new cabinless ship-to-shore container crane entered service at Patrick Terminals - Brisbane AutoStrad in Australia, handling container vessels and automated landside operations. The semi-automated crane is the first of its kind for Patrick Terminals, and one of the first cabinless Liebherr ship-to-shore container cranes to be in service globally, underscoring Liebherr's commitment to driving technological progress in the port equipment industry.
Bundling core competencies in a new company
Within the components product segment, the Liebherr Group merged the Lindau and Biberach (airfield) sites into one company, strengthening the areas of electric drive technology, electronics and control technology. Liebherr-Electronics and Drives GmbH has its headquarters in Lindau on Lake Constance (Germany). The company develops and manufactures its products not only for the Liebherr Group's numerous product segments, but also for external customers in sectors, such as agriculture, construction and commercial vehicles. The portfolio includes human-machine interfaces, gateways, sensor technology, control and power electronics. In addition, the site offers Electronics Manufacturing Services (EMS), as well as comprehensive testing and qualification services in the field of electronics. The business unit for electrical drive and control technology also expanded its portfolio to include electric motors, switchgear and energy storage systems.
Testing for next-generation aircraft
Liebherr-Aerospace installed a hydrogen test bench in its test centre in Toulouse (France), supported by the Région Occitanie and the French state agency DGAC (Direction Générale de l’Aviation Civile). The goal is to demonstrate the ability to generate electrical power using hydrogen fuel cells to supply the major non-propulsive electrical systems of a new generation single-aisle aircraft. Meanwhile, the focus is on maintaining the thermal management of the whole system, including both fuel cells and electrical systems.
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February
The gold standard for responsibility
Recognized by EcoVadis with the Gold Medal, Liebherr Home Appliances’ production sites achieved the top 3% standing globally for their sustainable actions in 2022. The award acknowledges a comprehensive approach, encompassing eco-friendly production, responsible water management and ethical labor and human rights along the entire supply chain. EcoVadis, one of the world’s largest and most reliable provider of sustainability rankings, reinforces Liebherr’s holistic strategy and demonstrates substantial progress through the transition from silver to the gold standard.
March
Powerful machines, exciting moments at Conexpo 2023
Liebherr showcased its extensive range of construction equipment, components and technologies at Conexpo in Las Vegas, Nevada, at the industry’s largest construction trade show in North America. Attendees experienced over 30 live exhibits spanning seven product segments in the impressive 60,400ft2 (5,600m2) outdoor booth. The dazzling display also highlighted Liebherr’s commitment to advancing its products and tailor-made components within the construction sector.
April
A legacy premieres
In pursuit of advancing renewable energy projects, the crane and heavy lifting company Sarens acquired Liebherr’s LR12500-1.0 crawler crane. The globally active Belgian company will use the crane for handling offshore wind turbine components, emphasising its robust capacity. Sophie Albrecht, Member of the Board of Liebherr International AG, handed over the symbolic key to Marc Sarens, Director & Member of the Board at Sarens. During the handover, Sophie Albrecht remarked: ‘Today would have been the 108th birthday of my grandfather and company founder Hans Liebherr.’
Unplugged strikes the right note
The electrically driven piling LRH100.1 unplugged has found its first jobsite in Sweden. Exceling with its large working range, the emission free machine is being used by the company Hercules Grundläggning AB to drive nearly 300 concrete piles into the ground for a building complex. Noise emission is reduced by 35% with the fitted H6 hammer of the latest generation. The electric drive concept impresses with zero emission, making the unplugged machines free of exhaust fumes and extremely quiet for noise-sensitive regions.
May
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A reliable partner for table tennis
During the World Table Tennis Championships in Durban (South Africa), Liebherr was honoured for 20 years of partnership with the International Table Tennis Federation (ITTF). The prestigious event, at which the world's best players competed for the medals, reached a new record with a cumulative worldwide reach of over 500million fans tuning in from their TV sets. Liebherr, also team sponsor of the German national teams, congratulates the bronze medallists in the men's doubles, Patrick Franziska and Dimitrij Ovtcharov.
Great possibilities in a small space
At Ligna 2023 in Hanover (Germany), Liebherr presented the new LH26MTimberLitronic, designed for efficient timber handling. Its remarkably small front and tail swing radius allow it to navigate narrow spaces effectively, enhancing operational flexibility. The minimal contours enable proximity to sorting lines or timber stacks, providing a clear view of the working area and safer conditions. Boasting impressive fuel efficiency even at maximum capacity, the LH26MTimberLitronic is a small but mighty powerhouse.
June
A comfortable commute, like a chameleon
Liebherr’s universal MACS8.0 air-conditioning systems, installed in the LondonCableLiner®, ensure comfort and reliability on each daily commute. The innovative chameleon-like technology is characterised by adaptability, versatility and energy efficiency, catering to passengers’ needs and various transport applications. With a space-saving modular design, the ‘plug-and-play’ solution facilitates seamless installation based on the specific cooling and heating requirements for the passenger compartment or driver’s cab.
July
First orders of the fully electric CBG 500 E
With ZHD Stevedores and Associated Terminals, Liebherr successfully gained two new and established customers for the first fully electric transshipment cranes of the CBG500E type. The pioneering machines for sustainable maritime bulk handling are also conquering markets with high growth potential. The environmentally friendly crane incorporates state-of-the-art drive technologies with Liebherr’s in-house developed crane control system ‘Master V’ and the LiCaTronic energy recovery system for optimal energy utilisation.
Everything at a glance in one app
Liebherr introduced the MyGuide for Earthmoving app, a transformative tool in accessing information on earthmoving and material handling products. The app integrates the Liebherr Earthmoving Configurator, simplifying machine configuration and enhancing user experience with direct contact options for Liebherr sales and service partners.
August
Advancing autonomy: the next haulage generation
Liebherr Mining took a significant step in autonomous technology with the onsite validation of its Autonomous Haulage Solution (AHS). Following comprehensive internal validation at Liebherr’s Mining Technology Development Centre in the USA, a fleet of T264 trucks were deployed at a Western Australia mine site. This critical move highlights Liebherr's continued expansion as a technology solution provider and commitment to offering scalable, flexible options and long-term customer support.
Workplace of the future: Liebherr Remote control for crawler dozers
A key focus in the crawler dozer product area was on designing the workplace of the future in the form of the Liebherr teleoperation solution LiReCon (Liebherr Remote Control). As part of a cross-divisional development project led by Liebherr-Werk Telfs GmbH, series development was started and driven forward in Telfs in the 2023 business year. Together with the modern assistance systems of the crawler dozers, which are a key technology for efficient use, LiReCon will enable customers to operate construction machinery safely and conveniently away from the work site in the future. The ability to switch between products opens up completely new possibilities for the user.
September
Enter the circle of freshness
At IFA 2023, Liebherr unveiled its latest fridge-freezer combination, which exceeds the highest energy efficiency class A by 10%. The pioneering insulation technology BluRox continued to impress with its novel circular product design. Liebherr’s quietest refrigerator product range ‘UltraSilent’ and the largest free-standing fridge-freezer with Liebherr BioFresh technology, were presented to customers for the first time. From the tech-savvy kitchen to storing wine with sophistication – Liebherr exhibited its new range of wine tempering fridges. The stunning new Vinidor storage models store fine wines at exactly the right temperature. They follow the sophisticated wine storage models GrandCru which had been launched earlier in the year.
The space-saving concrete hero
The 31XXT truck-mounted concrete pump is Liebherr's latest innovation for small and medium-sized construction sites and indoor projects. It boasts a low unfolding height with the new LiDriveIn function and a unique Powerbloc drive unit, which maximise performance. The drive unit is combined with the highly efficient semi-closed oil circuit, allowing it to supply all drives reliably and significantly reducing the oil volume. Extensive accessories, including LED lighting and storage solutions, further cater to customer requirements.
October
Gearing up for the future: Innovation in battery technology
Liebherr-Verzahntechnik GmbH progresses in sustainable recycling with automated disassembly processes for high-voltage battery systems from electric vehicles. Funded by the German Federal Ministry of Research and Education, this project is crucial for efficient recycling and worker safety, reflecting Liebherr's commitment to sustainable automotive practices.
Zero emission, full power
Liebherr entered into a collaboration with Mammoet to introduce the world's first electrically driven LTC1050-3.1E mobile crane. This innovative crane, with both conventional and electric motors, sets a new industry standard for sustainable, high-performance and zero-emission cranes. For Mammoet, the crane will complement their existing mobile fleet and provide an attractive option for their customers to reduce the CO2 impact of lifting operations.
A triumph in timber
In Hamburg’s Hafencity (Germany), the ‘Roots’ project was in motion, a hybrid construction featuring a 19-storey wooden tower and a seven-storey timber-framed building. Liebherr’s fibre rope cranes, including the 370EC-B Fibre, boast a 91.7m hook height and were instrumental in hoisting 1,600 timber construction elements. The high-strength fibre rope ensures weight savings and overall efficiency. The location on the waterfront demands a unique flood protection concept, blending reinforced concrete on the lower floors and wood from the third floor upwards. The project involves 5,500m3 of structural timber, setting a world record.
November
Exploring the universe
A cosmic cooperation is shaping the antenna universe. Developed with mtex antenna technology, Liebherr’s slewing bearings and drives play a vital role in the next-generation Very Large Array (ngVLA) antennas. These cutting-edge antennas, positioned strategically throughout North America, will be part of the largest radio astronomy facility in the Northern Hemisphere. The synergy of three elements – a slewing bearing, gear ring segments and azimuth drives – promises precision engineering at its finest.
The first battery-electric wheel loader
Zero onsite CO2 emissions, reduced noise and efficient charging: the pioneering L507E battery-electric wheel loader has been introduced by Liebherr in various European countries. Not only is this model ideal for urban and sensitive areas, it also offers an ergonomic design and stereo steering system. The L507E underscores Liebherr's commitment to eco-friendly and efficient construction machinery.
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Breathtaking views and prestigious reviews
The Europe Hotel & Resort in Killarney (Ireland) was a proud recipient of the distinguished Condé Nast Traveller 2023 Readers’ Choice Awards for ‘Top Ten Resorts in Europe’. With over 520,000 Condé Nast reader submissions, this recognition signifies ultimate excellence. Situated on the picturesque Loch Léin, the largest of the world-famous lakes of Killarney, The Europe Hotel & Resort provides breathtaking views of the MacGillycuddy's Reeks mountain range. Featuring 180 luxurious rooms, private balconies, three restaurants, and the 50,000ft2 award-winning ESPA spa, guests are offered the perfect haven for indulgence and relaxation.
December
A record-breaking delivery
An historic milestone was celebrated at the Liebherr plant in Ehingen (Germany) with the delivery of its 2,000th crane in a single year. To mark this spectacular feat, an LTM1070-4.2 was handed over to MAXIKraft Group, who consistently invest in new mobile and crawler cranes from Liebherr to keep their fleet up to date. Despite being accustomed to high production rates, the fact that the average crane size has also increased in recent years, makes this record even more outstanding. The plant’s dedication to quality, safety and customer service proves to be the key to success.
