2025 Utility Expo: Bigger Than Ever

Despite heavy rain that closed outdoor exhibits on day one, the 2025 Utility Expo drew record numbers. More than 22,600 attendees and 1,000 companies came together for the massive event, held Oct. 7-9 in Louisville, Kentucky.

Spanning across 1.5 million square feet, the expo showcased a wide range of exhibitors presenting innovative products, cutting-edge technologies and key updates that are shaping, and are set to transform, the future of the crane and rigging market.

Compressed Innovation

A suite of new products from VMAC offers greater efficiency, versatility and ease of use for mobile utility and construction applications. The company revealed updates across gas-powered, electric and multifunction air systems designed to meet the demands of utility, construction and service fleets.

“At VMAC, we’ve really focused on simplicity, practicality and usability from the customer’s point of view, along with designing systems that are easier to build, service and repair in the field,” said Jamie McPherson, director of engineering at VMAC, during the company’s press event.

The G90 with FlexDrive AMS delivers up to 90 cubic feet per minute (CFM) at 100 pounds per square inch (psi) continuously and up to 50 CFM at 170 psi for high-pressure applications, automatically adjusting airflow based on load. Its rotary screw design supports continuous operation even in temperatures up to 100 degrees, while an intelligent microprocessor and optional telematics allow for remote monitoring and diagnostics.

VMAC also introduced the battery-electric E30 with Stealth Power, a compact, lightweight 30 CFM compressor powered by a 10-kilowatt nickel manganese cobalt battery pack, offering a 45-minute runtime, low noise levels and integrated telematics. The new 6-in-1 multifunction system, powered by Honda, combines air, hydraulics, welding, generator power, battery charging and boosting in one unit with quieter operation and fuel-saving standby modes.

“Our customers care that their systems are light, compact and run a long time — and that’s exactly what we delivered with VMAC,” said Christina Arrington, chief product officer at Stealth Power. “The E30 combines high energy density, intelligence and efficiency in a way that really benefits utility and service fleets.”

Additional innovations include the Multi-Port Air Manifold, which organizes pneumatic tools for service trucks and vans.

Support That Holds Up

Ground stability remains a critical factor for crane operations, particularly on utility and infrastructure jobs where soft, uneven terrain is common. DICA introduced a new option for those conditions with its EcoMax crane pad, designed to combine steel strength with the durability and cost advantages of recycled composite material.

The pad uses steel I-beams that mechanically lock into molded composite timbers, forming a single rigid body. That structure is engineered to distribute loads more evenly than traditional laminated wood mats, which rely on through-bolts and can flex independently. A built-in center plate marks the proper outrigger placement zone, helping crews position equipment quickly and consistently.

EcoMax also features two load-rating approaches for real-world setup scenarios. The standard rating applies when the pad is fully supported, while a “bridge rating” accounts for situations where only the ends are supported and a gap exists beneath the middle. The pad includes lifting lugs that accommodate synthetic rope or chain slings, and steel components receive a non-slip coating to support safer handling.

The current model measures 24 square feet and carries a maximum capacity of 160,000 pounds (80 tons), targeted toward cranes in the 150-ton class. With its mix of composite and steel construction and emphasis on predictable load distribution, EcoMax offers crane owners and operators a new engineered ground support option for utility, transmission and other off-road lifting environments.

Hybrid Power and Service Integration

Stellar leaned into fleet versatility with its latest mechanic truck, hybrid power system and utility trailers, giving contractors and utility fleets new options for field service and material handling. 

The 2025 TMAX 1-11 aluminum mechanic truck introduced expanded configuration options for service crews. The model adds mounting rails for infinite shelving layouts, improved wiring access between compartments and 16-inch drawer sets with bale-style handles for tool organization. A streamlined rear-body design reduces welded penetrations to support long-term durability. Designed for compatibility with a wide range of cranes, the truck targets operators who need lifting capability paired with optimized storage and service-bay ergonomics.

Stellar also rolled out its updated Hybrid Power Source system, designed to support both internal-combustion and electric chassis. The modular battery platform lets fleets right-size energy storage, operating as a standalone unit on electric vehicle chassis or charging from the truck on internal combustion engine platforms. The setup aims to reduce idle time, noise and fuel use while delivering consistent hydraulic power for cranes and stabilizers. Top-access filtration and a pressure-controlled hydraulic system simplify maintenance and operation.

Rounding out the lineup, Stellar highlighted its self-loading cable trailer series, coil pipe trailer and multi-tank (MT) fuel trailer. The cable trailers offer 360-degree reel rotation and optional cordless-drill loading, lifting a 2,000-pound reel in under 25 seconds. The coil pipe trailer automates loading and deployment, while the 800MT fuel trailer delivers on-site fueling via eight baffled tanks without requiring a hazmat endorsement.

Quick Hits from the Floor

As a new addition to its protective equipment lineup, Bullard unveiled the Type II + safety helmet. Designed to meet the ANSI/ISEA Z89.1 Type II standard, the helmet provides impact protection from both the top and sides while emphasizing a customizable fit. Its FlexBrim design allows quick, tool-free conversion between standard and full-brim configurations, and field-replaceable components extend its service life.

LaValley Industries rolled out its PM1000 pole-setting attachment for articulating (knuckleboom) cranes, enabling operators to lift, grip, rotate and set poles entirely from the cab. The attachment offers 360-degree rotation, a secure grip and compatibility with a wide range of prime movers, reducing the need for tag lines and extra personnel. The PM1000 was demonstrated on an IMT articulating crane mounted on a Western Star chassis.

Franna also displayed its AT24 US crane, highlighting features aimed at operator safety and load management. The model includes automatic counterweight detection, operator-settable working limits, front axle weight monitoring and real-time feedback on rated capacity. Safety systems include overload protection, Franna’s Dynamic Load Moment Indicator, an external emergency stop and an ergonomically designed operator cabin.