Indonesian shipyard acquires Liebherr CGB 500 E crane

Liebherr-MCCtec GmbH will, in October 2025, deliver a new all-electric CBG 500 E crane to PT Bahtera Bahari Shipyard (PT BBS) in Indonesia. The crane will be installed on a barge currently being constructed by PT BBS at its Batam facility.

The crane will be operated by PT Bahtera Alam Sejahtera (PT BAS), a sister company specialising in bulk cargo logistics.

According to Liebherr,  the acquisition is a bold step taken by PT BBS in advancing Indonesia’s maritime capabilities. The acquisition – finalised during the BAUMA 2025 event in Munich, Germany – represents a significant advancement in the transshipment sector, particularly in Indonesia.

The CBG 500 E features a rope luffing mechanism, a 65-tonne safe working load in grab operation, and a 43-metre outreach – making it ideal for high-volume coal handling. Its all-electric drive system, supported by the Licatronic energy recovery system and supercapacitors, ensures reduced emissions and optimised energy use.

The crane also integrates Liebherr’s Master V control system, offering advanced diagnostics and future-ready automation support.

PT BBS’s investment in the CBG 500 E is a forward-looking move designed to support the operational needs of our sister company, that will deploy the crane in its coal transshipment activities. PT BAS, based in Kota Tanjung Pinang, has a long-standing relationship with Liebherr and already operates several CBG 350 and CBG 360 cranes. The new unit will significantly enhance its handling capacity while aligning with broader environmental goals.

“The CBG 500 E represents a powerful addition to our fleet, significantly increasing our handling capacity in the bulk handling sector,” said Selamet Widodo, President of PT BAS and PT BBS. “We are confident that its innovative drive system and performance parameters will meet our operational needs and set new standards in efficiency.”

PT Bahtera Bahari Shipyard (PT BBS), established in 2005 in Batam, Indonesia, is renowned for its shipbuilding solutions, including barges, tugboats, and landing crafts. The shipyard spans over 52 hectares and features modern production facilities and a skilled engineering team. The CBG 500 E will be mounted on a crane barge built at PT BBS, enhancing the operational capabilities of PT BAS. The crane’s advanced features, such as its high handling capacities and speed, will address their need for improved efficiency and capacity in bulk handling operations.

“Our partnership with both companies gives proof to our shared commitment to excellence and innovation in the maritime industry,” said Jonathan Weu, Sales Manager Ship Cranes, Port and Transshipment Solutions from Liebherr. “The crane’s delivery and subsequent operation will send a positive signal to the market, demonstrating the efficiency and reliability of Liebherr’s transshipment solutions.”

As the CBG 500 E prepares for its journey to Indonesia, the project stands as proof to the power of collaboration and strategic foresight. With PT BBS leading the investment and PT BAS driving operations, this initiative sets a new benchmark for environmentally conscious transshipment in the region.