Italian RT aimed at Russia
21 October 2008
Mobile crane manufacturer TCM is developing its first rough terrain.
Antonio Pucci, export manager at the Italian company told IC at the SIAE 2008 exhibition that the new range would be aimed at the Russian and Ukrainian markets.
There will be 35 and 55 tonne capacity versions, with three different engine choices from Iveco, Cummins or Caterpillar.
Features include a top speed of 40km/h and a hook attached to the rear of the vehicle, enabling it to tow up to 15 tonnes. Additionally, the cylinders inside the boom provide a much higher lifting capacity at the horizontal position, said Pucci, making the crane suitable for working in oil fields.
The machine was developed following requests from customers in Russia and the Ukraine. "We have already worked well with these countries and understand the requirements for making much more specialized machines. The Russian market does need special options and we do not offer stock items," explained Pucci.
So far there have been five orders for the 55 tonne version and three orders for the 35 tonne machine. Pucci plans to deliver up to 30 units by the end of 2009 and is in talks with contacts in the Middle East concerning potential orders.
Being a smaller manufacturer also means that delivery times are lower than the big producers, adds Pucci. He estimated that a TCM rough terrain can be delivered in 90 days.
About 80% of the company's products are exported, which reflects the drop in the Italian market. However, Pucci is not as pessimistic as some people in the country and forecasts a recovery in less than a year. This, he said, will be brought about by government investments in the likes of high speed railways and a bridge between Sicily and mainland Italy.
