Large Rental Company of the Year
Alayan (Italy/Spain/Portugal)
Alayan has undergone significant transformation over the past two years, evolving from a regional, mono-specialist rental company into a multinational, multi-specialist operator across Southern Europe.
Between 2019 and 2024, the company increased its rental revenues over fivefold, growing from €35 million to approximately €185 million.
In 2023, Alayan integrated Emerent, a generalist rental company with 11 branches across Spain, acquired at the end of 2022 and fully operational by early 2024.
In 2024, the company completed two further acquisitions: AMS, a specialist events rental provider based in Madrid, and Strutture, a modular spaces rental company in Northern Italy. That same year, Alayan expanded into Portugal with its first branch in Porto.
In total, Alayan added 14 new branches organically across Southern Europe during 2023 and early 2024, bringing the network to 50 branches spanning Italy, Spain, and Portugal.
Reflecting this growth and diversification, the company rebranded in February 2025 as Alayan, unifying the previously separate identities of CGTE, Emerent, and Finanzauto Rental under one name. The rebrand aims to represent the company’s commitment to alliance, expert support, and consistent service across multiple markets and sectors.
This transformation aligns with broader shifts in the services and sharing economy, where rental customers increasingly seek comprehensive, flexible solutions rather than ownership. Alayan offers not only equipment rental but also value-added services such as digital tools, maintenance, and logistics, enabling clients to focus on their core activities.
The Southern European rental market is projected to grow at 5-10% annually, and Alayan’s expanded footprint and multi-specialist capabilities position it well to capture this growth, offering customers enhanced choice, efficiency, and service quality.
KDM Hire (UK)
Founded in 1990 in rural Northern Ireland, KDM Hire has grown into one of Ireland’s leading rental companies, operating seven depots across Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland. Offering a broad range of equipment through eight specialist divisions, KDM provides solutions in accommodation, aerial platforms, power generation, lifting equipment, and more.
Since entering the Republic of Ireland market in 2018, KDM has doubled its turnover, with revenues expected to reach €45 million in 2025. This growth is supported by significant investment in new bespoke depots and facilities, including expansions for its energy division, K Power. The company maintains strong financial performance, with net margins above 20% and EBITDA near 45%.
Customer service and safety are key priorities. Daily operational meetings, detailed KPIs, and advanced IT solutions—such as QR-coded digital manuals—ensure efficient service and rapid issue resolution. KDM operates a comprehensive safety program with ongoing training and strict incident management.
Sustainability is embedded in KDM’s strategy through its GoGreen initiative, helping customers choose eco-friendly rental products. Investments include solar hybrid generators, electric scissor lifts, cordless tools, and solar-powered toilets. Environmental efforts include planting over 2,000 trees, installing solar panels on depots, and powering 60% of its head office with wind energy.
KDM also features an in-house metal refurbishment workshop, extending equipment lifecycle and sustainability. A new Training Academy supports both employee and customer education, promoting safe and efficient equipment use.
With its strong focus on growth, innovation, safety, and environmental responsibility, KDM Hire demonstrates a commitment to excellence and sustainability, positioning itself as a leading rental company ready for continued success.
Sunbelt Rentals UK & Ireland (UK)
Sunbelt Rentals UK & Ireland reported a turnover of £706 million in 2024. The company operates across multiple industries and has demonstrated continued growth and resilience through strategic initiatives and operational improvements.
In 2024, Sunbelt Rentals launched its Sunbelt 4.0 strategy, a five-year plan focused on seven core pillars: growth, performance, sustainability, investment, technology, people, and customers. This strategy aims to enhance operational processes, expand market presence, and improve customer experience, while embedding sustainability into business practices.
The company places significant emphasis on employee development and wellbeing. In 2024, over 46,700 training modules were completed by employees, with more than 250 apprentices supported across various business areas, including construction and the Film & TV sector. A new leadership framework was introduced to provide structured mentorship and development opportunities. Diversity and inclusion initiatives include a Women in Leadership programme and several Employee Resource Groups, promoting a supportive workplace culture. Employee wellbeing is further supported by a network of 90 trained Mental Health First Aiders and health-focused campaigns such as the “Let’s Move” programme.
Customer service is central to Sunbelt Rentals’ operations. The Customer Voice programme collects feedback throughout the rental journey, contributing to an 18% reduction in complaints in 2024. A dedicated Customer Experience team manages complaints to ensure prompt and consistent resolution.
Sustainability is integrated throughout the company’s operations. Sunbelt Rentals operates the largest fleet of electric and hybrid machinery in the UK, uses 100% green electricity at controlled depots, and has invested over £165 million in eco-friendly equipment and renewable fuel solutions. The company’s “Our Planet” sustainability strategy supports ongoing efforts to reduce environmental impact.
Sunbelt Rentals continues to invest in fleet expansion and emerging markets, supporting major infrastructure projects and growing its Film & TV rental division through facility expansion and acquisitions. These efforts reinforce its position as a leader in the rental industry.
Small- and Mid-sized Rental Company of the Year
Eurotecno (Italy)
Eurotecno recorded its highest turnover since its founding in 1994, exceeding €12 million in 2024 while strengthening its financial position by reducing net indebtedness significantly. The company reinvested over €2.6 million during the year and plans to invest nearly €5 million in 2025 to support ongoing growth.
Recognizing the importance of its workforce, Eurotecno increased its team from 31 to 38 employees in 2024 and introduced a five-year incentive plan for key personnel to enhance retention and align employee goals with company growth. Training remained a priority, with over 40 hours and €18,000 invested in technical and operational skill development, including collaborations with JLG Industries Italia, IMER International Spa, and Bosch.
To improve the working environment, Eurotecno undertook a €102,000 office renovation, upgrading key facilities and enhancing energy efficiency through heating and insulation improvements.
Eurotecno also launched “Project Schools,” an educational initiative engaging over 600 students from STEAM-focused schools. The program involves creative challenges, hands-on workshops with MEWP equipment, and promotes teamwork, resource management, and communication skills. This project aims to inspire the next generation of rental industry professionals.
The company supports social inclusion through contributions to the Occhi Azzurri Onlus Foundation, assisting a rehabilitation center for disabled individuals by providing equipment and financial donations. Additionally, Eurotecno backs OMS Edu, a project helping young people identify talents and plan career paths.
Sustainability is a core focus, demonstrated by investments in solar panels and a closed-loop water recycling system that significantly reduce the company’s carbon footprint and utility costs. These initiatives contributed to notable energy savings and improved environmental performance.
Eurotecno celebrated its 30th anniversary by involving employees in a collaborative LEGO MEWP model project, fostering creativity and strengthening customer relationships.
Eurotecno’s 2024 achievements combine strong financial performance with a commitment to employee development, sustainability, industry education, and social responsibility, positioning the company as a leading, forward-thinking rental business in Europe.
Highsparks (UK)
Highsparks expanded its fleet to 30 tower cranes during 2023 and early 2024, strengthening its capacity to support construction projects across the UK. Founded in 2008, the company specialises in Terex, Saez, and Potain cranes and is known for its focus on safety, reliability, and customer service.
A key achievement in this period was supporting Marr Contracting with the erection of the Favelle Favco M2480D, the world’s most powerful luffing tower crane. Highsparks supplied expert operators and technical lifting support, contributing to the successful assembly and commissioning of this complex crane. This project showcased Highsparks’ ability to manage challenging heavy lifting operations and reinforced its position as a trusted partner in the industry.
Safety remains a core priority. The company maintained zero major incidents in 2023 and early 2024 by implementing comprehensive operator training, site audits, and maintaining accreditations with Constructionline and Achilles UVDB. These measures ensure compliance with industry regulations and promote safe working environments.
In line with environmental responsibility, Highsparks invested in energy-efficient cranes, adopted biodegradable hydraulic fluids, and introduced waste reduction and recycling programmes. These sustainability initiatives reduced fuel consumption by approximately 25%, reflecting the company’s commitment to reducing its environmental impact while maintaining operational efficiency.
Workforce development was also a focus, with expanded training programmes and wellbeing initiatives introduced to retain skilled personnel and enhance job satisfaction. This investment in staff supports Highsparks’ ongoing operational excellence and ability to deliver complex projects safely and efficiently.
Highsparks’ fleet expansion, safety record, sustainability efforts, and commitment to workforce development collectively strengthen its position as a leading tower crane rental specialist in the UK, delivering reliable, innovative, and responsible lifting solutions.
PSM Plant & Tool Hire Centres (UK)
In 2024 and early 2025, PSM Plant & Tool Hire Centres Ltd made significant strategic investments to enhance service quality, safety, and sustainability across its operations. As a successful family-run business marking 40 years in the industry, these developments reinforce PSM’s commitment to continuous growth and operational excellence.
We expanded and upgraded our hire fleet by adding over 240 new items, ensuring a reliable and consistent supply of high-quality equipment to meet growing customer demand. This expansion strengthens our competitive position and allows us to better serve a diverse customer base.
In January 2025, we introduced two new Euro VI 7.5-tonne lorries to our delivery fleet. These vehicles are designed to maximise fuel efficiency and reduce emissions while complying fully with the UK’s Ultra Low Emission Zone (ULEZ) standards. Equipped with advanced safety features, the new lorries improve the safety of our drivers, customers, and other road users, while supporting our environmental goals.
A major milestone was the completion of a comprehensive refurbishment of Depot 2, our main warehouse, workshop, and transport hub, finished by the end of 2024. Upgrades include expanded warehousing and storage, enhanced workshops, and a newly established independent trade counter, offering customers greater convenience for equipment hire, purchases, and expert advice.
Depot 2 also received practical improvements such as a renovated mezzanine floor, a new loading area with a permanent safety pallet barrier, and bespoke external steel pallet racking. These enhancements increase operational efficiency, improve safety standards, and optimise the use of available space, allowing easier access and organisation of plant and equipment.
The combined impact of these investments has been immediate, with improved delivery reliability, increased operational efficiency, and a reduced environmental footprint. The upgraded depot and expanded fleet enable PSM to continue providing dependable, safe, and customer-focused services, positioning the company for sustained success in a competitive rental market.
Rental Product of the Year
Atlas Copco – ZBC1000-1200 Portable Energy Storage
Atlas Copco is advancing the electrification of temporary power rental with its new ZBC1000-1200, the largest unit in its Portable Energy Storage range. Designed to replace diesel generators and meet increasing on-site power demands, this high-power density system delivers 1,200 kWh (1.2 MWh) capacity and a 1 MW output — all housed within a compact 20ft ISO container.
Engineered specifically for rental applications, the ZBC1000-1200 enables fast deployment, heavy-duty performance, and modular scalability. It is ideal for large construction sites, events, temporary EV charging, cranes, grid support, and testing applications. The system’s plug-and-play design allows operators to quickly integrate it into existing site infrastructures with minimal setup.
A key innovation is Atlas Copco’s in-house developed ECO Controller™, an energy management system that optimizes power flows across multiple sources, including the grid, solar arrays, and generators. This smart controller enables seamless synchronization, boosting efficiency in microgrid configurations and enabling flexible power delivery tailored to demand.
Thanks to its Lithium-Iron-Phosphate (LFP) batteries, the ZBC1000-1200 ensures high safety, durability, and operational efficiency. The unit is equipped with advanced features such as integrated cooling, fire suppression, isolation transformer, and protection breakers. Remote monitoring via FleetLink provides real-time insights, ensuring reliability and proactive maintenance.
This containerized solution supports up to 90% fuel savings when used in hybrid mode with diesel generators, reducing CO₂ emissions by over 200 tons during its operational lifetime. Its universal design is compatible with different voltages and frequencies, making it suitable for global deployment in diverse weather conditions.
Atlas Copco’s ZBC1000-1200 is redefining temporary power rental by offering a robust, flexible, and eco-friendly energy storage solution — enabling rental companies to decarbonize operations, lower costs, and support the energy transition with scalable, modular microgrids.
HG – E1000 HT site dumper
HG has developed the E1000 HT, a fully electric high-tip mini dumper designed to meet the growing demand for sustainable and efficient rental equipment. Offering over 12 hours of runtime on a single charge, the E1000 HT supports extended use across various rental applications. The unit features fast charging capabilities, with a recharge time from 20% to 80% in 90 minutes, helping to minimize downtime on site.
The dumper’s wheeled design reduces surface damage compared to tracked alternatives, making it suitable for indoor work, urban construction, and landscaping projects. The machine is designed for easy operation and accessibility to accommodate a broad range of users. Compared to traditional diesel dumpers, the E1000 HT offers competitive performance with lower noise and zero local emissions.
The total cost of ownership is reduced through lower daily operating costs—approximately €1 per day versus €30 for diesel alternatives. Over time, fuel savings can offset the initial purchase price, supporting a cost-effective transition to electric machinery for rental companies.
HG developed the E1000 HT in response to industry trends toward zero-emission equipment and evolving customer needs. It addresses common concerns such as range anxiety, operational efficiency, and cost competitiveness. The machine helps rental companies comply with stricter emissions regulations while expanding opportunities in noise- or emission-restricted environments.
The E1000 HT is currently used by several rental companies across Europe, including Loxam, HKL, Kiloutou, Zeppelin, Cramo, Renta, and Storent. It supports rental fleets aiming to offer more sustainable equipment options without compromising performance or productivity.
Niftylift – HR22SE telescopic boom
The Niftylift HR22SE is an all-electric boom lift designed to combine operational efficiency with environmental responsibility. Offering a working height of 21.7 meters and an outreach of 18.8 meters, it delivers market-leading reach and performance while maintaining a lightweight design of 9,980 kg—21% lighter than the average of comparable models. This lower weight improves transport efficiency, reduces ground pressure, and lowers energy consumption.
Its fully electric drive system produces zero emissions, making the HR22SE suitable for indoor use and low-emission zones. Maintenance-free AGM batteries and advanced telematics via Niftylink® reduce downtime and servicing costs, enhancing rental fleet profitability. The SiOPS® safety system improves operator protection, contributing to safer job sites.
Compact dimensions, including a 7.2-meter transport length and a tight 7.72-meter turning radius, allow easy transport and manoeuvrability on confined job sites. A class-leading cage capacity of 280 kg supports multiple operators and tools, boosting on-site productivity.
Niftylift developed the HR22SE to meet increasing demands for zero-emission equipment, cost efficiency, and enhanced safety in the rental market. It responds to stricter emissions regulations, rising fuel costs, and the need for versatile, easy-to-maintain machines that perform reliably in a range of environments.
Since its launch, the HR22SE has helped rental companies reduce operational costs, improve fleet utilisation, and meet sustainability targets. Its combination of reach, performance, safety features, and transport efficiency positions it as a strong contender for Rental Product of the Year.
Trime MGTP 24000/30 THS Solar Hybrid Generator
The Trime MGTP 24000/30 THS is a 24kVA hybrid generator combining solar panels, lithium batteries, inverters, and a Stage 5-compliant diesel engine to provide fuel-saving, low-emission power. It offers continuous, emission-free electricity when operating on battery and solar power, with the diesel engine automatically starting only to recharge the batteries as needed before shutting down again.
Equipped with an MRS 16 intelligent touchscreen control system, the generator monitors solar input, battery status, fuel usage, and load, providing operators with real-time remote access via PC, tablet, or smartphone through an integrated telemetry platform. This feature enables better management of fuel consumption and emissions.
Designed to meet stricter emissions standards, the MGTP 24000/30 THS supports rental companies seeking to reduce carbon footprints and fuel costs while maintaining reliable power delivery. Its lithium battery and solar technology reduce noise and emissions, making it suitable for a variety of applications including construction sites and outdoor events.
The generator can deliver continuous 24kVA power with zero emissions and noise during battery operation. When battery levels drop, the diesel engine restarts to recharge the batteries, ensuring uninterrupted power supply. Additionally, it can operate with engine and batteries combined during peak demand, reducing the need for extra generators.
A case study from Rotterdam demonstrated significant fuel and cost savings, with a client achieving approximately 90% reduction in fuel expenses over an 87-day rental period compared to a conventional diesel generator.
Standard safety and operational features include forklift pockets, lifting hooks, lockable control panels, a battery management system, bunded fuel tank, and emergency stop. Optional upgrades include additional solar chargers and cold-weather battery heating.
Trime’s MGTP 24000/30 THS represents a step forward in sustainable power generation, offering rental companies a monitored, efficient, and environmentally friendly alternative to traditional diesel generators.
Best safety initiative by a rental company
GSV
GSV has enhanced workplace safety in the rental industry through the introduction of digital tools, structured training, and a focus on safety culture. A key element is the implementation of a real-time safety reporting app that allows employees to report hazardous situations via smartphones. This has led to an increase in safety reports from 37 in 2022 to 58 in 2023, supporting faster identification and response to risks.
The reporting app integrates with GSV’s “MitGSV” online platform, giving customers visibility into the safety status of rented equipment. Automated escalation processes ensure that serious issues receive timely management attention.
All employees are required to complete annual digital safety training, with a 95% completion rate achieved in 2023. Practical safety workshops complement the training, and a pilot Virtual Reality program has been introduced to simulate workplace scenarios, with plans for full implementation in 2025.
GSV also promotes safety awareness through initiatives such as the “Take Care of Each Other” campaign, which addresses seasonal hazards like winter conditions. Safety is a regular topic in weekly meetings across all locations, supported by safety ambassadors and external safety consultants who review and update protocols.
Investments in safety equipment include defibrillators and first aid training at all sites, as well as sensor technology on equipment to reduce accident risk.
These measures have contributed to a reduction in workplace accidents resulting in absence, from 30 in 2019 to 4 in 2023, and a decrease in the Lost Time Incident Frequency (LTIF) to 3.8 in 2023. GSV’s efforts were recognized with the Danish Occupational Health & Safety Award in 2023.
Through the combination of digital reporting, training, cultural initiatives, and technology, GSV has made progress toward improving safety standards in the rental industry.
Sunbelt Rentals UK & Ireland – multiple initiatives
Sunbelt Rentals, the UK’s largest hire company, has strengthened workplace safety through leadership commitment, targeted training, and safety culture initiatives. Central to this effort are biannual Safety Weeks that engage employees across all locations on key topics such as load security, workplace aggression prevention, and seasonal hazards.
The ‘Engage for Life’ programme supports a safety-first culture by delivering interactive workshops focused on personal accountability and risk management to over 430 operational leaders in 2024. Additionally, 46,741 training courses were completed last year, with a significant portion dedicated to health and safety.
Sunbelt maintains ISO 45001 accreditation at all depots and has retained SafeHire certification following extensive audits. The company also actively contributes to national and international safety committees, helping to shape industry standards.
These efforts have led to a 41% reduction in Total Recordable Incident Rate (TRIR) and RIDDOR incidents, along with a 27% decrease in Lost Time Incident Rate (LTIR), reaching record-low accident rates in 2025. Sunbelt’s achievements were recognized with the 13th consecutive RoSPA Gold Award and the 3rd Presidents’ Award.
By combining leadership focus, comprehensive training, cultural engagement, and external collaboration, Sunbelt Rentals continues to improve safety performance across its operations.
ERA Sustainability Committee: best sustainability initiative by a rental company
GAM
GAM has introduced Reviver, Europe’s largest machinery remanufacturing plant, aiming to transform equipment consumption through a circular economy model. Located in Villacé, Spain, Reviver extends the lifecycle of industrial machinery by reconditioning machines and recycling components, reducing the need for new production and lowering environmental impact.
Reviver evaluates each machine to determine reusable parts and responsibly processes those at end-of-life. Remanufactured equipment retains its original manufacturer plate alongside a certificate indicating the percentage of reused components, with CO2 savings calculated for each unit. The plant handles around 3,000 machines annually and supports the sustainability commitments of customers and suppliers across Spain and Europe.
To power its operations sustainably, Reviver is equipped with 1,334 solar panels, helping reduce CO2 emissions by 9,000 tonnes annually—equivalent to removing 7,500 cars from the road. The facility also generates significant local employment, currently providing 150 jobs and targeting 300 as it expands to three shifts. Reviver is committed to workforce diversity, aiming for 40% female representation and allocating 20% of jobs to people with disabilities through a partnership with Soltra.
Complementing its environmental goals, Reviver partners with GAM’s Kirleo vocational training program, preparing local candidates with skills for remanufacturing roles and committing to hire half of the trainees. The plant promotes sustainable mobility for employees via electric scooters provided by GAM’s Inquieto subsidiary, aligning with broader environmental objectives.
Reviver supports multiple UN Sustainable Development Goals, including responsible production (SDG 12), decent work (SDG 8), and climate action (SDG 13). Since opening, the plant reached a milestone of 100 remanufactured machines by August 2024 and plans to remanufacture around 570 units in 2025, targeting a total CO2 emissions reduction of 2,850 tonnes through its process.
GAM’s Reviver project exemplifies how remanufacturing can reshape the machinery sector by maximising resource efficiency and reducing environmental impact while supporting social inclusion and economic growth.
Kiloutou
Kiloutou partnered with Manitou Group to develop a retrofit electrification kit for used thermic telescopic forklifts, aimed at reducing environmental impacts while maintaining performance and safety standards. This initiative converts combustion-engine forklifts into electric vehicles, extending their lifespan and lowering carbon emissions as a sustainable alternative to purchasing new machinery.
Following a year of technical feasibility studies, Manitou designed an electrification kit tailored to Kiloutou’s specifications. The retrofit equipment delivers equivalent lifting and handling performance to the original thermic model, with all safety criteria fully met. The project validates retrofit as a viable solution that extends equipment life and reduces its environmental footprint.
Key outcomes include a 40% reduction in greenhouse gas emissions over the equipment lifecycle and a 25% improvement in environmental impact scores due to electrification. The carbon footprint of the retrofit is fully offset after approximately 1,000 hours of use compared to standard thermic equipment.
Beyond emissions reduction, retrofitted electric forklifts contribute to cleaner construction sites, especially in urban areas with Low Emission Zones and traffic restrictions. A major construction company is currently testing the retrofit on site for a year to evaluate autonomy, charging, and operational feedback under real conditions.
Once validated, the retrofit equipment will be included in Kiloutou’s iMPAKT range of environmentally friendly machinery, available through Kiloutou’s French rental network.
Loxam
The Paris 2024 Olympic and Paralympic Games provided LOXAM a unique platform to reinvent its services by combining operational excellence with sustainability and social inclusion. As official partner for temporary energy infrastructures and modular structures, LOXAM delivered a comprehensive range of innovative solutions that drastically reduced environmental impact while fostering inclusion.
Key achievements included connecting all electrical systems at 53 competition and non-competition sites to a carbon-free electricity grid, cutting emissions by at least 85%. LOXAM deployed cutting-edge technologies such as photovoltaic fields, electro-hydrogen generators, and HVO biofuel-powered equipment. The use of 100% electric or HVO100-powered handling machinery reduced carbon emissions from equipment by at least 60%.
In addition to environmental milestones, LOXAM contributed over 40,000 hours of employment through social reintegration programs, empowering individuals and creating pride through their involvement in this global event.
LOXAM also championed resource efficiency and circular economy principles. The refurbishment of 300 modular units minimized new production, and 40% of infrastructure used low-carbon wood materials. The deployment of Stage V generators improved air quality by reducing particulate emissions. Waste management efforts included recovering 42 tons of materials in partnership with social organizations and recycling 500 tons through certified partners.
The Games served as a learning ground, highlighting successes and areas for improvement such as scaling renewable energy solutions and enhancing reuse logistics. These insights will guide LOXAM’s future sustainable practices across sectors.
Social responsibility remained central throughout, with over 44,000 hours of integration work completed and 87 individuals securing long-term employment. Responsible purchasing policies prioritized local and SME suppliers, with 98% of suppliers from France and 90% classified as VSEs/SMEs.
Worker well-being was fostered through anonymous feedback channels, onsite interviews, and wellness initiatives including sports challenges that engaged over 2,000 employees and supported disability sports associations.
LOXAM’s involvement in Paris 2024 demonstrates how large-scale events can accelerate environmental and social innovation. Building on these learnings, LOXAM aims to extend low-carbon solutions to clients, strengthen partnerships to address recruitment challenges, and embed responsible purchasing across its global operations.
Through this ambitious approach, LOXAM has shown that sustainability and inclusion can be integral to operational success—setting new benchmarks for the rental and construction sectors.
ERA Technical Committee Award: Best initiative to minimise the total cost of ownership
Atlas Copco
For nearly 40 years, the QAS generator range from Atlas Copco has been a benchmark in the rental industry, providing reliable portable power for a wide range of applications and environments. Over four generations, the QAS series has been developed to deliver consistent performance, durability, and ease of maintenance. Its compact design supports efficient transport and installation while helping to reduce maintenance costs, key factors in minimizing the total cost of ownership (TCO).
The latest 5th generation QAS+ introduces Stage V engines and features the patented Dynamic Fan Speed (DFS) cooling system. This system adjusts fan speed based on cooling requirements, leading to significant fuel savings—the largest contributor to TCO—as well as reductions in noise and CO₂ emissions. These enhancements are delivered without increasing the generator’s footprint or compromising key operational features.
The QAS+ range, spanning from 60 to 660 kVA, offers a fully Stage V-compliant solution tailored to rental companies and end users seeking cost-effective, low-noise, and high-performance temporary power.
Fuel efficiency and noise reduction are further supported by the smart variable speed fan, which achieves noise levels approximately 5 dBA lower than comparable products. The integrated Plug & Play Power Panel provides enhanced connectivity, with up to eight independently protected sockets secured by power locks for added safety. The PMS controller can manage up to 16 QAS units simultaneously, optimizing fuel consumption and extending generator lifespan through load sharing.
The QAS+ units are designed for durability, featuring an integrated lifting frame positioned at the center of gravity, capable of supporting four times the maximum weight without failure. The robust, spillage-free frame and dual-stage filtration system contribute to reliable operation under demanding conditions.
Maintenance is facilitated by large access panels, allowing full access to the engine, alternator, and radiator, simplifying routine servicing. Installation is made easier through plug-and-play cable connections and well-organized cable routing, contributing to operational efficiency.
Xtellio
Over the past 18 months, Xtellio has successfully launched 18 standardized IoT sensors and gateway devices, enabling scalable hardware solutions to collect and transmit data from machines, assets, and construction sites. While strongly committed to digitalization, Xtellio also prioritizes seamless deployment, open data flow through APIs, and delivering tangible value at a fair cost.
A key focus of Xtellio’s latest solutions is energy consumption on jobsites, specifically targeting modular welfare units. By proactively automating climate control systems such as heating, ventilation, and cooling, these devices generate substantial power savings. Importantly, these savings often exceed any additional rental fees, making the solution cost-effective for contractors. Simultaneously, the devices collect and forward data critical for CO₂ and ESG reporting, which is increasingly mandatory in various regions.
Xtellio’s offering includes a comprehensive IoT device solution tailored for modular units, recognized by the Tech Committee. The solution integrates five sensor types that monitor temperature, humidity, power consumption, and window or door open/closed status. Using this data, the system can automatically shut down heating or cooling when windows are left open or during scheduled low-occupancy periods such as nights or weekends.
Climate control is managed either via an infrared sensor that mimics HVAC remote controls or through power metering sensors installed in fuse cabinets, which can cut power to specific circuits like radiators. These capabilities enable significant reductions in energy use, helping main contractors reduce operational costs while fulfilling environmental reporting requirements.
Additionally, the gateway unit provides daily GPS location data, supporting basic fleet management and operational efficiency for rental companies. Xtellio’s focus on “data liberation” ensures easy integration through APIs, with supporting tools including a smartphone app for installation and testing, as well as an online device management platform. This allows partners to incorporate data directly into existing software, avoiding the need for additional front-end solutions.
Kaeser Kompressoren
Kaeser Kompressoren has focused on improving maintenance processes for portable compressors to optimize Total Cost of Ownership (TCO) in the rental industry. In 2024, the company introduced changes that reduce both maintenance costs and service time. These improvements allow the Kaeser MOBILAIR compressor range to achieve up to 40% savings in maintenance costs and up to 30% reductions in maintenance time. For larger electric portable compressors, the potential savings increase to 65% in maintenance costs and 70% in time.
One major initiative was the revision of the maintenance schedule for MOBILAIR compressors. This revision is based on data collected and analyzed over several years concerning equipment use and service requirements. Key adjustments include extending intervals for compressor filters, compressor oil, and dirt strainers from every 500 hours or yearly to every 1,000 hours or every two years. Similarly, engine belts and antifreeze replacement intervals were extended from 1,000 hours or two years to 1,500 hours or three years. The engine filter set has also been standardized across all MOBILAIR® models, and preventive replacement of hose lines has been discontinued. These adjustments lead to material cost savings between 32% and 40%, and time savings between 20% and 34%, depending on compressor size.
For larger electric compressors such as the M250E and M255E models, Kaeser introduced two maintenance modes tailored to operating conditions. The “Mobilair Mode” is designed for construction, sandblasting, and mining environments with rough, intermittent use, requiring maintenance every 500 hours. The “Industry Mode” targets stationary industrial applications with controlled conditions and continuous operation, allowing maintenance intervals up to 2,000 hours. The mode can be selected through updated software accessible via a dealer-level password. This approach results in potential material cost savings of up to 65% and time savings of up to 70% over a 12-year period.
These improvements demonstrate Kaeser’s commitment to reducing maintenance burdens while supporting rental industry requirements.
Rental Technology of the Year
Calculus C06w Gateway
Calculus has been developing telematics solutions for rental companies, with a focus on special rental equipment, for eight years. The company connects people and machine data to simplify operational complexity and provide useful insights. These solutions help rental companies improve efficiency across departments, maintain better control of machines in the field, and reduce costs related to logistics, maintenance, machine sizing, and project reporting. Additionally, the collected data supports the adoption of low-emission equipment by providing manufacturers with information to enhance sustainable machine design and assisting rental companies in reducing emissions.
In November 2023, Calculus introduced a new gateway device, the C06w, alongside an updated software platform. This gateway is designed to communicate with a wide range of rental equipment, including generators, batteries, hybrid systems, electrical distribution boxes, chillers, pumps, transfer cabins, and air handlers. Developed with feedback from rental customers, the C06w gateway is engineered to reliably collect data from complex rental machines and is tailored to the requirements of the rental industry.
Most gateways available in the market are designed for industrial applications and often do not fully meet the rental sector’s needs. The C06w addresses this gap by including features such as GPS location tracking, automatic network search for international deployments, suitability for extreme operating temperatures, resilience to vibration, local data storage to prevent gaps during network outages, data aggregation to capture peak usage for sizing purposes, direct forwarding of critical service alerts, secure remote access and control capabilities, and the ability to incorporate local intelligence and future AI functions.
The gateway has become a widely adopted product, integrated both by rental companies into their existing fleets and by machine manufacturers into new equipment catalogs to provide connected machine options. When combined with Calculus’ cloud software, rental customers gain improved machine tracking across projects and access to data-driven insights that support better dimensioning, fewer service interventions, streamlined reporting, transparent communication with end customers, and enhanced sales discussions.
Manufacturers also use this data to improve machine durability and optimize service support. End users benefit from data that assists in sustainability reporting and compliance with regulatory frameworks such as CSRD.
In 2024, the technology demonstrated value in renewable hydrogen projects by supporting zero-emission initiatives through precise machine monitoring and sizing. It was also utilized at major sporting events, including the Paris Olympics, providing insights for energy and water consumption optimization. Additionally, the technology has supported manufacturers in the development of new battery and hybrid machines.
Calculus maintains close collaboration with rental companies to ensure its solutions address industry needs and contribute to digitalization, sustainability, and operational efficiency.
Trackunit – IrisX data platform
Trackunit launched IrisX in August 2024 as an operating data platform designed for the construction industry. The platform incorporates technologies such as generative AI and machine learning to support data analysis, automate workflows, and facilitate business operations. IrisX is developed to address challenges specific to construction fleet management by providing a secure, scalable, and adaptable solution.
IrisX integrates telematics, operational, and commercial data into a single system accessible in real time. It enables users to analyze data, automate processes, and create custom applications suited to their requirements. The platform includes tools for analytics, workflow automation, and software development kits for building tailored solutions.
With ISO 27001 certification, IrisX ensures data privacy and cybersecurity. The platform is designed to evolve over time, offering faster implementation and reducing upfront costs.
The construction industry faces challenges such as fragmented data, limited availability of technical expertise, operational inefficiencies, and increasing demands for sustainability. IrisX aims to address these issues by consolidating data, streamlining operations, and improving efficiency.
Since its release, IrisX has been used to reduce equipment downtime by predicting maintenance needs, optimize asset usage across sites, and automate workflows to save time. Rental companies have used the platform to improve service efficiency and customer experience, while equipment manufacturers have leveraged the data to support service and product improvements. Additionally, IrisX has contributed to sustainability efforts by helping reduce fuel consumption and emissions.
Real-world applications include a contractor reducing downtime through integrated telematics data, and a rental company improving fleet management and customer satisfaction via analytics.
The platform supports integration with existing systems, allowing users to build on current technology investments. Its ongoing development helps users adapt to changing industry needs.
In summary, IrisX offers a data platform that combines advanced technology with practical features to support construction operations and fleet management.
ERA/IRN Rental Person of the Year
Winning citation will be published after the award ceremony.
Lifetime Achievement Award
Winning citation will be published after the award ceremony.
