Business & Finance
MacGregor reports electric models accounted for over 80% of new crane orders in early 2026
The Swedish heavy-lift equipment maker reported strong maritime demand and demonstrated an autonomous crane project.
The short version
- MacGregor announced that electric models comprised more than 80% of its new maritime crane orders in the first half of 2026.
- The transition affects global shipping operators looking to reduce energy usage, hydraulic oil leaks, and cold-weather operating issues.
- MacGregor also showcased an autonomous crane prototype co-developed under the European Union's SEAMLESS initiative.
- The company stated that international regulatory and safety frameworks will need to be developed to deploy autonomous crane technologies broadly.
Key facts
- MacGregor reported that electric models accounted for over 80% of its new maritime crane orders during the first half of 2026.[Electrek]
- More than 600 international container vessels have been outfitted with MacGregor's electric cranes over the past 15 years.[Electrek]
- Electric cranes offer up to 60% lower energy consumption and eliminate hydraulic oil leakage risks compared to traditional hydraulic units.[Electrek]
- MacGregor demonstrated an autonomous crane concept developed in partnership with the University of South-Eastern Norway as part of the EU-funded SEAMLESS project.[Electrek]
What remains uncertain
- The timeline for establishing international safety standards and regulations necessary for full-scale autonomous maritime crane deployment remains unclear.[Electrek]