Utility companies and their contractors rely on digger derricks to dig holes and set poles. But as utility demands evolve, so must the equipment. Manufacturers are stepping up with innovations focusing on four core areas: capacity, speed, flexibility, and safety.
Today’s digger derrick manufacturers are tackling these challenges head-on—with more capacity, faster performance, greater operator flexibility, and stronger safety solutions. Here’s what’s new across each of these four areas.
What’s New in Capacity
According to Jordan Desmarais, Distribution Derricks Market Manager for Altec, aging utility poles are being replaced with higher-strength, heavier pole classes. Add in newer, high-efficiency transformers that require more materials, and it’s clear utilities need more lifting power. In some areas, pole installation heights are also on the rise.
“We continue to listen to customer needs as operational demands develop,” says Desmarais. To that end, Altec offers a comprehensive digger derrick portfolio and extensive jib accessory options to help utilities and contractors address evolving height and weight requirements.
“We’re seeing growing interest in higher-capacity models like the DH series for distribution applications,” he adds. “The DH series provides the same proven functionality as our DM and DC models while delivering 30% greater lifting capacity.”
At The Utility Expo 2025, Altec will introduce a new series of digger derricks engineered for heavy-duty distribution and sub-transmission applications. This product will feature industry-leading lifting capacities, a first-of-its-kind outrigger design for best-in-class penetration, and short jacking capability—all standard on E-Series configurations.
Terex Utilities has also responded to the call for increased capacity. In 2021, it introduced the new generation of its General 65 digger derrick for utility transmission applications.
“The General 65 MAX boasts greater capacities through all boom angles, but especially in the work zone,” says Tyler Schwingler, Marketing Product Manager for Terex Utilities. “Whether the transmission crew needs low boom angles for digging or high boom angles for transformer unloading, the General 65 MAX delivers.”
The General 65 MAX features a 22,740-pound lift capacity at a 10-foot radius when fully retracted. With the optional X-Boost, it delivers up to 25,000 pounds—26% more than its predecessor—by adjusting hydraulic pressure to optimize performance at high boom angles.
What’s New in Speed
Utilities are also demanding faster digger derrick performance. According to Wade Smith, VP of Sales for Versalift, “With a faster operating speed, tasks like setting poles or digging foundation holes go quicker—cutting job time and increasing productivity.”
Versalift engineers are continuously refining key metrics like max capacity, sheave height, horizontal reach, and dig radius. “We will be debuting our newest digger derrick at The Utility Expo 2025,” Smith shares. “It will deliver noticeably faster operating speeds and improved efficiency across the board.”
Just as importantly, Smith says, Versalift focused on a series of thoughtful, incremental improvements—refinements in systems, construction, and serviceability—that add up to real gains in day-to-day use.
What’s New in Flexibility
Modern digger derrick operators want more control over how they work. Terex’s new Flex Pro controls deliver exactly that, offering a suite of electronic consoles that allow operators to perform tasks with precision and customize settings to their preferences.
Operators can choose from multiple joystick layouts and up to six radio remote configurations. And with Flex Pro, Terex includes X-Boost as a standard feature, improving lifting performance within a 10-foot radius.
“To select the right digger derrick for the job, the truck should be able to dig a hole and set the pole without the need to reposition,” Schwingler notes. “That requires both digging and lifting strength at the point of operation—not just at optimal angles.”
All three manufacturers—Altec, Terex, and Versalift—offer both fully hydraulic and electric-over-hydraulic control systems. Altec’s fully hydraulic systems appeal to customers prioritizing streamlined, cost-effective operation, while their E-Series electric-hydraulic systems support advanced features and connectivity via Altec Insights.
Terex’s Commander and General series features full-hydraulic controls that are easy to maintain. But for customers who prefer tailored configurations, the Flex Pro system provides enhanced electric control options. Versalift also offers both setups and notes that customer familiarity and ease of use ultimately drive what works best in the field.
What’s New in Safety
As always, safety remains a top priority—and manufacturers are doubling down with new technology and smarter controls.
Both Altec and Terex report growing interest in radio remote operation, which helps operators position themselves safely while improving visibility and control.
“While riding seats have traditionally been the standard console position,” says Desmarais, “alternatives such as tail shelf-mounted consoles and radio-only units are gaining popularity.”
“Radio remote control helps place the operator in the best position to see the work or perform inspections,” adds Schwingler. Terex offers four radio remote configurations, including Turntable Mount and Command Post Mount. The Flex Pro system uses a controller area network instead of radio waves to enhance signal reliability.
Altec has also introduced a Wireless Load-on Hook system—initially launched on the DT85—that delivers real-time winch line load data without the bulk of traditional dynamometers. This tech will roll out to all E-Series models in 2026.
Terex offers a load display system across its entire digger derrick line. On Flex Pro-equipped machines, the data integrates with onboard displays for easy monitoring.
“Safety and usability remain top priorities in our design and development process,” says Versalift’s Smith. “Our control systems and overload protection help crews stay safe without getting in the way of their work.”
Whether it’s lifting heavier loads, speeding up routine tasks, customizing controls, or adding smarter safety tech, digger derricks are evolving to meet the real-world demands of utility crews. The innovations from Altec, Terex, and Versalift show just how far these machines have come—and where they’re going next.
The Best Way to Shop for Digger Derricks
Explore all the latest models and see these innovations in action at The Utility Expo, October 7-9, 2025, in Louisville, Kentucky. Register now to get hands-on with the future of utility equipment.
At The Utility Expo, you’ll have the rare opportunity to compare the latest digger derrick models side by side, talk directly with manufacturers, and demo equipment in a real-world environment. Whether you’re looking to boost lifting capacity, speed up pole setting, or improve operator safety, the hands-on experiences at the show can help guide your next equipment decision.
See the full list of companies that will be exhibiting at The Utility Expo 2025: Exhibitor Directory.
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