The evolution of the loadercrane

Facts & Figures

"Our goal is to provide integrated, comprehensive solutions that overcome tomorrow's challenges in a connected and smart way."

Michael Völker,

Head of Product Management Loader Cranes EMEA at PALFINGER

1960s  
Hydraulics as standard

Redefining something new: In 1959 Richard Palfinger presents his first loader crane with a stiff boom system. In 1964 Hubert Palfinger brings the first hydraulic loader crane onto the market with a significantly extended outreach. In 1968 PALFINGER starts small series production with the first exports to France and Switzerland. 

1970s
Multifunctional workhorse 

Progress at all levels: In 1971 a patent for hydraulic lifting moment regulation sets new standards in precision and performance, heralding a decade of technical progress. Numerous patents, from hydraulic lifting moment regulation to the mast planting grab and folding main boom, make the PALFINGER loader crane a multifunctional workhorse. 

1980s  
Double success

Who dares wins: With the Power-Link system, PALFINGER introduces a double lever arm system — both on the main boom and on the knuckle boom. A highly daring step because it is more expensive and complex than a crane without double lever arms because you need additional joints, journals and bearings. In the 1980s, the Power-Link system is a unique selling point. Today, the double lever arm system is standard on loader cranes all over the world. 

1990s
Electronics on the rise

Electronics become a game changer: The introduction of PALTRONIC 100 in 1992 sees it replace previous overload systems and enable precise overload protection and precision crane control for the first time. Launched in 1998, Active Oscillation Suppression (AOS) dampens the natural vibrations of the loader crane and significantly improves precise control. The system immediately defines a new benchmark. Initially viewed with skepticism, electronics turn out to be a real game changer.  

2000s 
Green thinking has priority

It's the details that matter: PALFINGER uses new materials and coatings to increase the service life of the cranes. Cathodic dip painting (CDP), introduced in 2002, not only protects cranes from corrosion, but also keeps them looking good — a decisive factor when it comes to the high resale value of PALFINGER cranes. Following the development of PALTRONIC 50 and PALTRONIC 150, electronic control systems make operation easier, safer and more efficient. 

2010s  
The triumph of electronics continues

Sharpening profile: In 2011 PALFINGER increases safety during operation with the innovative HPSC (High Performance Stability Control) system. And at the same time ensures that operators can work much more comfortably than before. In 2012 PALFINGER introduces the P-Profile. The lightweight and particularly stiff boom system enables longer outreaches with significant weight reduction and energy savings as a result. 

2020s
Connected thinking

Smartly connected as standard: Digitalization gains momentum. The “CONNECTED” IoT platform connects the FLEET MONITOR, OPERATOR MONITOR and Service Cockpit apps. This provides the technological basis for achieving greater efficiency, better predictability and more profitable operation with real-time data. Using SMART CONTROL, operators control the crane tip in all directions and can save crane positions using the memory position function. Since 2025, PALFINGER has even delivered a wide range of its equipment from the factory with a telematics module and the option to transfer data as standard — CONNECTED as a standard. This allows customers to take advantage of digital services directly. 