Terex Challenger 3180

Unveiled at the 2011 Vertikal Days plant show, the Terex Challenger 3180 represents a significant evolution in Terex’s mobile crane lineup, shifting from naming cranes by maximum capacity to using load moment ratings. Designed to replace the AC60, the Challenger 3180 combines power, reach, and self-contained mobility into a single machine that can handle demanding urban and industrial lifting operations.

This 3-axle crane boasts a maximum lifting capacity of 60 tons, with an impressive 37.9 tons at a 4-meter radius. Its 50-meter single-cylinder telescopic boom offers strong vertical reach, complemented by a 16-meter jib extension that provides additional flexibility in applications requiring offset or long-reach lifting. Built with road regulations in mind, the Challenger 3180 is configured to carry up to 12.1 tons of counterweight while remaining within a 15-ton axle load limit, allowing it to travel fully equipped without needing support vehicles.

A hallmark of the Challenger 3180 is its design for complete one-man operation. The crane features an ergonomic cab with intuitive controls that support efficient, comfortable handling by the operator. Its 3-axle carrier enhances maneuverability, making it well-suited to congested urban sites and compact work environments. The machine also delivers high road speeds, reducing transit time and operating costs.

In markets where stricter axle load restrictions apply, Terex introduced the Challenger 3160, a variant with a lighter boom and reduced lifting capacity, offering similar technology and operational features tailored to local regulations.

Early adopters of the Challenger 3180 included UK-based crane rental company NMT and Italy’s Vernazza Autogru. NMT’s Challenger 3180, delivered in 2012, was outfitted with outrigger base monitoring and load monitoring systems, providing real-time data on ground pressure and outrigger position for improved safety and operational oversight. Vernazza Autogru, meanwhile, chose to customize its Challenger fleet with distinctive animal-themed paintwork—tiger stripes on the 3180 and zebra patterns on the 3160—creating a unique visual brand identity while showcasing the crane’s modern design.

The Terex Challenger 3180 stands out for its blend of performance, versatility, and ease of operation. Designed as a fully self-contained solution, it allows operators and crane rental fleets to move quickly between job sites and adapt to diverse lifting challenges with minimal setup time. With high lifting capacity, extended reach, and operator-friendly features, the Challenger 3180 remains a benchmark in the 60-ton all-terrain class, providing reliable service across construction, industrial maintenance, and infrastructure projects worldwide.