Konecranes launches smart, connected industrial crane to tap opportunities across multiple customer segments
Konecranes today launched its flagship Konecranes X-series industrial crane, the successor to its popular CXT model with a new compact design and safe, reliable technology that — thanks to its wireless upgrade capabilities — can adapt to customer needs now and in the future.
- New flagship Konecranes X-series to be at the core of industrial cranes in the years to come
- Unique wireless upgrade capability gives customers greater flexibility, offers Konecranes new business model opportunities
- Deliveries of the Konecranes X-series to start in Q4 2024 in EMEA, follow in other regions later
"The new flagship crane builds on a quarter-century of success for the CXT, which was launched in 2000 and to date has sold well over 100,000 units globally," said Jussi Luokomaa, Product Manager, ISE EMEA, Konecranes. "We expect to see good demand for the Konecranes X-series across multiple industries including general manufacturing, making it a core product for the company for years to come."
By applying sustainable design and material choices, the X-series shows how Konecranes is shaping next generation material handling for a smarter, safer and better world. Its new design and component improvements include, for example, a more compact and efficient motor and synthetic rope, leading to efficiency improvements. The Design for Environment (DfE) approach was applied in the X-series product development, aiming to reduce the overall environmental impact of the product.
But it is the crane’s connectivity that really sets it apart. The X-series will come equipped with the latest radio and software technology and Konecranes' TRUCONNECT remote monitoring capabilities, enabling safe and secure wireless updates and upgrades in the future – an industry first for global crane makers. In the future customers will be able to buy the crane and then upgrade to Smart Features such as Follow Me, Sway Control or Snag Prevention, opening up the possibility for eventual on-demand business model opportunities for Konecranes.
This innovation in connectivity underscores Konecranes' commitment to enhancing productivity and reducing downtime and extends the company's leadership in digital services. It also reflects the increasing importance of connected equipment in material handling. To date Konecranes has 53,600 connected pieces of equipment globally.
Konecranes is now taking orders for the X-series and expects the first deliveries to begin in Q4 2024 in EMEA, with deliveries in other regions to follow later.
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 decarbonize the economy and advance circularity and safety.
www.konecranes.com
