Austrian manufacturer Rubble Master is bringing the RM V550e to market as the world's first mobile jaw crusher with fully electric drive. The machine operates completely without a diesel engine and is powered via mains connection. For operators of recycling sites, this means: zero local emissions, significantly less noise, and eliminated fuel operating costs.
The RM V550e features a jaw opening of 550 millimeters and processes concrete rubble, bricks, and natural stone. The electric drive power is 132 kilowatts, distributed across the crushing mechanism, conveyor belt, and hydraulic system. According to the manufacturer, the crusher achieves a throughput of up to 160 tons per hour, depending on the feed material. This corresponds to approximately the level of comparable diesel-powered models from the RM series.
Technically, the RM V550e is distinguished by the complete elimination of internal combustion engine and diesel-powered hydraulic units. Instead, electric servo motors work directly with the hydraulics. This reduces maintenance effort: no engine oil changes, no diesel particle filters, no SCR systems. The crushing plant is mounted on a tracked chassis and can be positioned on site via remote control. For transport, the total weight remains under 30 tons.
The market launch targets operators working in urban areas or indoor facilities. These locations often have strict noise protection regulations and emission bans. The RM V550e reduces sound level by approximately 10 decibels compared to diesel variants, which in practice is considered a halving of perceived loudness. First pilot machines are already running at recycling companies in Austria and Germany. Rubble Master plans to expand the concept to other crusher sizes if demand increases.
The industry is responding with interest, but also with questions about power supply. Many recycling yards do not have a 400-volt three-phase power connection with sufficient capacity. Rubble Master therefore optionally offers a mobile diesel generator as an interim solution — which partially undermines emission-free operation. In the long term, the manufacturer is banking on permanently installed mains connections or stationary battery storage. Other manufacturers in the mobile processing technology sector are pursuing comparable approaches.
In terms of price, the RM V550e is approximately 20 to 25 percent higher than a comparable diesel crusher according to the manufacturer. The higher acquisition costs are expected to amortize within four to five years through saved fuel costs and reduced maintenance expenses. For operators with high operating hours and a stable power grid, this makes a clear case. However, those who frequently change sites and lack mains connection will continue with diesel for now.
