Construction

Niftylift launches hydrogen-powered MEWPs

The HR15 H2E and HR17 H2E can run for up to five days on batteries alone. (Image source: Niftylift).

Niftylift is at the forefront in the mobile elevated work platform (MEWP) sector, offering some of the most fuel-efficient diesel-powered equipment, as well as hybrid and fully electric models.

Recently, it introduced the world’s first hydrogen-electric-powered access platforms – the HR15 H₂E and HR17 H₂E – marking a breakthrough in zero-emission construction in the Middle East.

"When powered by renewable energy, Niftylift’s fully electric platforms provide a dependable zero-emission solution for a wide range of urban jobsites. However, we recognise that not all projects, especially those in remote locations, have access to grid power for charging. This is where the hydrogen fuel cell comes into play. By adding it on top of the electric system, we offer a versatile and practical solution that’s viable for virtually any jobsite," explains Thomas Hadden, global technical sales manager at Niftylift.

The HR15 H₂E and HR17 H₂E can run for up to five days on batteries alone, with the hydrogen system doubling this range. Even with daily use, the hydrogen cylinder only needs replacing every two to three weeks. These boom lifts integrate hydrogen technology seamlessly, maintaining Niftylift's renowned low weight and compact design while emitting only water vapour and heat as by-products. This makes them ideal for both urban and remote sites, aligning with the region’s sustainability goals.

Johnson Arabia became the first rental company in the region to acquire a Niftylift HR15 H₂E, impressed by its performance during a demonstration. The company also added 19 fully electric units to its fleet. The HR15 H₂E is now operational on a high-profile UAE construction site, delivering zero emissions without downtime for refuelling or recharging.

Growth in the Middle East

Niftylift sees strong potential in the Middle East, driven by the focus on sustainability and safety in construction. “We’ve seen an ever-increasing growth for Niftylift products in the region even given the fierce market competition,” says Thomas. “This surge in demand is largely due to the heightened awareness of safety standards in the region and we are internationally renowned at Niftylift for our advanced safety features, such as SiOPS (sustained involuntary operation prevention system), load-sensing, and tilt-sensing technologies.”

To support growing demand, Niftylift is establishing a regional office in Dubai, serving as a hub for direct sales and support for key account rental companies. This will strengthen its partnerships in Bahrain, Kuwait, and Qatar, and expand its customer base in Saudi Arabia, a key growth market.

Niftylift also maintains close relationships with customers through regular face-to-face meetings and participation in industry events, including sponsorship of the International Powered Access Federation (IPAF) Middle East Conference 2024 in Riyadh.

“The Middle East’s transition to a sustainable future hinges on innovative technologies, such as hydrogen-electric equipment,” Thomas concludes. “As a leader in this field, we at Niftylift are committed to empowering the region’s construction industry to achieve ambitious decarbonisation goals.

Caterpillar and Trimble expand construction tech partnership

Image of a tablet on a construction machine.

This move will enhance innovation and allow both companies to explore new industry and geographic opportunities. (Image source: Caterpillar)

Caterpillar and Trimble have extended their long-standing joint venture to expand the availability of grade control solutions in the construction sector.

Since the partnership began in 2002, Caterpillar Trimble Control Technologies (CTCT) has focused on improving jobsite safety and productivity through advanced grade control products.

The new agreement broadens the distribution of interoperable grade control solutions, making them available through a flexible platform for Caterpillar, Trimble, and other equipment manufacturers.

Growing networks

This move will enhance innovation and allow both companies to explore new industry and geographic opportunities.

For Caterpillar customers, the expanded offerings will provide access to factory-installed grade control systems, the option to upgrade Cat Grade 3D systems at any point during the machine lifecycle, and additional aftermarket and digital solutions through Cat dealers.

Trimble customers will benefit from continued support for mixed-fleet systems via the SITECH dealer network and increased access to grade control solutions through the Trimble Construction One platform, further extending Trimble’s construction technology capabilities.

This agreement strengthens the collaboration between the two companies and expands their reach in delivering advanced solutions to the construction industry.

“Trimble's Connect & Scale strategy has created an ecosystem that empowers customers across both the physical and digital worlds. The next phase of our joint venture will drive innovation in grade control technology to expand the industry opportunity with localised and differentiated solutions while improving technology interoperability,” said Rob Painter, president and CEO of Trimble. "This partnership underscores a joint commitment to connect the office and the field throughout the design-build-operate lifecycle of construction projects.”

"Caterpillar and Trimble have a long history of innovating together,” said Tony Fassino, Caterpillar Construction Industries group president. “We are proud of what we’ve developed to help customers optimise their operations, including grade control. Today’s announcement is a continuation of this collaboration. With a focus on accelerating this leading-edge technology, we are committed to making it easier for customers to acquire and adopt our solutions across Cat and mixed fleets alike."

WETEX insights: building climate-resilient communities in the UAE

An image of a sustainable city. (Image source: Canva)

At a recent seminar on climate-resilient solutions, Dr. Jacinta Dsilva, research director at SEE Institute, highlighted the critical need for sustainable urban planning to address the growing environmental challenges facing communities, particularly in the UAE and the Middle East.

With increasing urbanisation, the region is experiencing extreme weather patterns, including fluctuating temperatures and unpredictable rainfall, which pose threats to urban infrastructure and human well-being.

Dr. Dsilva emphasised that while developed countries have the resources to manage climate-related challenges, developing nations face more significant hurdles. She explained, “The challenge is these can be managed by developed countries. What about developing countries or countries that are dealing with much more climate-related challenges?” This gap, she noted, requires innovative, accessible, and affordable solutions.

Climate-resilient built environment

Among the key solutions discussed were nature-based approaches to flood resilience, such as wetlands. “Wetlands reduce flood risks by up to 40%,” said Dr. Dsilva, adding that creating such ecosystems in vulnerable areas could greatly mitigate the impact of climate change. She also pointed out the importance of addressing urban heat islands, a major issue in the Middle East. Implementing solutions like “cool roofs” and “urban forests” can reduce temperatures by 2 to 4 degrees Celsius, offering relief from the intense heat.

Dr. Dsilva also stressed the importance of incorporating sustainable urban design and green spaces into city planning. “Sustainable urban planning enhances both physical and mental well-being,” she said, explaining how walkable spaces, parks, and community events foster a sense of social connectivity and contribute to healthier communities. According to her, creating more opportunities for social interaction is crucial in today’s world, where digital distractions often isolate individuals from their neighbours.

Another vital area of focus is waste segregation and recycling. Dr. Dsilva highlighted the need for a circular economy, noting that “if we know how to segregate waste right from the source, we will be able to reduce at least 70% of the waste going to the landfill.” She commended the UAE government for its initiatives, such as the large waste-to-energy plant in Dubai, which is set to generate energy from organic waste.

As climate challenges intensify, Dr. Dsilva called for collective action: “We need to really work on SDG number six, which is clean water and sanitation.” She urged communities and governments to incorporate sustainable practices and technologies to build a more resilient future.

Manitowoc to highlight its solutions at Batimat

The new Manitowoc crane in front of an old building.

The new crane benefits from the latest enhancements for Potain self-erecting cranes. (Image source: Manitowoc)

Manitowoc, a leading provider of engineered lifting solutions, will debut the new Potain Igo M 24-19 at the Batimat exhibition, running in Paris, France, from 30 September to 3 October

Replacing the best-selling Igo M 14, the new crane joins the Igo MA 21 and Hup M 28-22 A in the company’s range of mobile self-erecting cranes. Measuring 11.83 M in length in the folded position, the crane is well suited to manoeuvring through narrow and restricted jobsites, making it ideal for new home construction and renovations.

Boasting three jib configuration options of 12.3 m and 21 m as well as the full 24 m option, versatility has been prioritised to enable the crane to easily adapt to jobsite requirements.

“At Potain, we are driven to deliver innovative solutions that fit the market, and our customer’s needs. The new Igo M 24-19 optimises compactness, mobility, performance, and productivity for our customers to increase their return on investment,” said Rémi Deporte, self-erecting cranes product manager at Manitowoc.

The Igo M 24-19 has a permanent ballast installed and offers three steering axle options for travel. There is a 25 km/h tow bar, an 80 km/h tow bar, and a fifth wheel. The maximum capacity of the Igo M 24-19 is 1.8 t and will lift to 570 kg at its maximum jib length of 24 m. The height under hook is 19 m. Additionally, the crane can work in a raised jib position of 11° or 20° when more height under hook is needed.

The latest advancements from Potain are included in the crane’s design, including Smart Set-Up, Potain Crane Control System, Drive Control, Power Control, Steering Axle, and the Potain CONNECT telematics system. There are also several productivity options available including an onboard generator for power independence, hydraulic levelling for easier crane setup, Potain Plus load curve software, and the Top Site working range limiter.

Tech partnership to unveil 1.7-ton zero-emission excavator next year

Swappable battery docks. (Image source: Hitachi Construction Machinery)

Hitachi Construction Machinery, a construction machinery manufacturer, has announced a collaboration with Dimaag-Al, a leading provider of electric solutions, to design and deliver to the market a 1.7-ton electrified hydraulic excavator

Expected to be completed by December 2024, the partnership aims to unveil the vehicle at Bauma 2025 in Munich before launching the product on the European market in 2027. The industry-leading machine will be geared towards use in urban construction and indoor demolition.

“To realise zero-emission, it is important to provide not only our products but also solutions combined with related products such as energy storage system,” remarked Kazunori Nakamura, vice president and executive officer, CTO, president of Power & Info Control Platform Business Unit and Research & Development Group. “For this purpose, the collaboration with various partners is the key to success. Since the battery module for this collaboration from Dimaag is versatile and applicable to various electric products, further acceleration of the electrification at construction sites can be expected. We are excited to partner with an innovative company like Dimaag and would like to expand our electrified vehicle lineup.”

High power construction machinery

Hitachi will provide technical information of the base machine and specification requirements for the electrification while Dimaag will integrate its Electric No Compromise Off-Road Ecosystem (ENCORE). First showcased at Consumer Electric Show 2024, ENCORE is comprised of Dimaag’s high power, swappable battery modules, advanced thermal management system, inverters, motors, power electronics and software for EVs as well as charging stations.

Ian Wright, cofounder of Tesla and VP engineering at Dimaag, commented, “Dimaag’s ENCORE technology has been deployed across multiple prototype off-road vehicles to validate our design intent of no compromise on safety, all-day performance, and affordability. We are honoured to partner with Hitachi Construction Machinery to be a pioneer and enable economies of scale for the ENCORE tech stack. This partnership marks a significant step towards achieving electrification of agricultural and construction machinery, with no compromises.”