Liebherr debuts electric excavators

Two new electric crawler excavators have been released by Liebherr as a zero emission alternative in the excavator market.

The Liebherr R 976-E and R 980 SME –E electric crawler excavators produce zero CO2/greenhouse gas emissions during operation and zero noise thanks to a new electric system developed by Liebherr.

The excavators replace their predecessor, the ER 974 B model, and have been developed and produced by Liebherr in Colmar, France.

Built to withstand extreme conditions, the two excavators weigh 90 (R 976-E) and 100 (R 980 SME-E) tonnes respectively and are available in both backhoe and shovel versions.

The R 976-E model is powered by a 6000V electric system via a cable connection, with the cable inlet in the centre of the undercarriage, or on the sides if requested. Liebherr adds a motor cable drum is also available as an option.

A switch cabinet transformer (high voltage/low voltage) and a low voltage cabinet for power distribution and control of 690 V, 230 V and 24 V networks are located on the upper carriage. The R 967-E is also powered by a high voltage 6000 V/50 Hz current collector.

Both the R 976-E and R 980 SME-E offer users a host of technological advantages, including a longer service life given the excavators are electric.

Both models have the ability to maintain a constant speed regardless of the load, and also have a high availability of transient power for complex machine movements to enable a very high productivity.

The engine of the R 976-E drives the hydraulic system and also features heat shielding on bearings and motor windings. Elsewhere, lockable watertight doors have been fitted with safety switches and an emergency stop button.

A spacious cab, fitted with automatic permanent air conditioning and heating systems have also been included; while a 270-degree camera system provide users with near-unmitigated view when operating the machine.

Liebherr says the electric excavators are cost-effective and reliable in the field, standing out in the market for their high performance.

“They are the end-product of robust design based on experience gained in mining applications,” the company says.

“Their reliability has been tested in extreme conditions. In line with its commitment to ecology and sustainability, Liebherr guarantees zero pollutant gas emissions.

“The robustness, reliability and cost-effectiveness of the R 976-E and R 980 SME-E make them products of choice for environmentally friendly extraction applications,” Liebherr says.

The Liebherr R 976-E and R 980 SME-E are available throughout Australia now.