Escorts F15 vs Escorts HYDRA 12: the two differ on 45 of 53 listed specs. The main differences are Engine (VECV 101 HP vs E-Kubota 50 HP), Operating Weight (16020 kg vs 10300 Kg), Weight (16020 kg vs 10300 kg), Fuel Tank (220 L vs 50 L). The other 8 specs are the same.
Specs from OEM brochures · comparison updated Aug 2026
* Ex-factory price ranges are indicative for Sep 2026 and change with variant, city and offers; confirm with the dealer. On-road cost adds transport, RTO, insurance and accessories. Disclaimer
The comparisons provided are based on the technical specifications published by the respective OEMs on their official websites and brochures. Please confirm these details directly with the OEMs before making any final decision.
Key Highlights
Escorts F15
Escorts HYDRA 12
Escorts F15
VS
Escorts HYDRA 12
Crane
Escorts F15 vs Escorts HYDRA 12: the two differ on 45 of 53 listed specs. The main differences are Engine (VECV 101 HP vs E-Kubota 50 HP), Operating Weight (16020 kg vs 10300 Kg), Weight (16020 kg vs 10300 kg), Fuel Tank (220 L vs 50 L). The other 8 specs are the same.
Specs from OEM brochures · comparison updated Aug 2026
Escorts F15
₹36.5 Lakh Onwards*
Escorts HYDRA 12
₹18.0 Lakh Onwards*
Particulars
Escorts F15
Escorts HYDRA 12
Escorts F15 vs Escorts HYDRA 12: Which Pick-n-Carry Crane to Buy?
The Escorts F15 and the Escorts HYDRA 12 are both pick-n-carry cranes from the same Escorts Kubota brand, so parts and service come from the same dealer network for either machine. The F15 is the bigger of the two, with more engine power, four-wheel drive and a taller boom, which suits outdoor construction and infrastructure sites with rough ground. The HYDRA 12 is smaller and simpler to run, with a tighter turning radius that works well inside factories, warehouses and tight yards.
In India, cranes in the HYDRA 12's 12-tonne class are some of the most common rental cranes on the road, so there is strong demand if you plan to hire it out by the shift, and it is easy to sell later. The F15's bigger capacity means fewer buyers but a higher rent for each job, so it suits a fleet owner or contractor who already has steady demand for heavier lifts. See the full range of cranes, or read our crane buying guide for more on picking the right lifting capacity.
Escorts F15
Pros:
Higher maximum lifting capacity of 14 Tonnes
More powerful engine with 101 HP
4 Wheel Drive for better off-road performance
Synchromesh transmission with more speeds
Higher maximum speed without load
Larger fuel and hydraulic tanks for longer operation periods
Larger boom height for extended reach
Cons:
Potentially more complex operation due to more features
Heavier operating weight might reduce mobility in certain conditions
Bigger turning radius may not be suitable for extremely tight spaces
Escorts HYDRA 12
Pros:
Adequate for lighter tasks with a 12 Tonnes lifting capacity
Simpler transmission and drive type could mean easier maintenance and operation
Cons:
Less powerful engine with 50 HP
2 Wheel drive may limit off-road capabilities
Lower maximum speed without load
Smaller capacity of fuel and hydraulic tanks
Lower maximum boom height limits reach
Pros:
Cons:
Closing Recommendation
Both cranes come from the same Escorts Kubota brand, so service and parts are equally easy either way. Choose the Escorts F15 when your jobs need higher lifting capacity, four-wheel drive and outdoor rough-ground work. Choose the Escorts HYDRA 12 when you want a simpler crane that turns easily in tight yards and has strong rental demand. So match the machine to your work: Escorts F15 for heavy outdoor lifts, Escorts HYDRA 12 for easy indoor work and shift rental.
Escorts F15 Vs Escorts HYDRA 12 Crane Price, Technical Specifications & Features
The Escorts F15 is a 14-ton farana pick and carry crane built for industrial plant, construction, and infrastructure lifting applications across India. A VECV diesel engine rated at 101 HP powers its hydraulic system, providing responsive lift-and-carry performance. The crane has a rated lifting capacity of 14 tonnes and a boom that extends to 18.2 metres. All-wheel steering and a low centre of gravity allow for safe load transport across various terrains. Its compact design permits access to tighter work areas with minimal ground preparation. The Escorts F15 crane price in India starts at ₹36.5 Lakh onwards*, based on configuration and purchase location. This Escorts crane is a practical choice for contractors, EPC companies, and crane rental firms needing pick and carry capability.
The Escorts Hydra 12 is a 12-ton pick and carry crane designed for construction, infrastructure, and industrial lifting across India. It runs on an E-Kubota diesel engine that produces 50 HP, ensuring reliable hydraulic performance on busy job sites. The Hydra 12 crane can lift a maximum of 12 tonnes at a specific radius with a boom length of 9.6 to 11.3 metres. Its compact size provides excellent stability on uneven ground. A well-designed hydraulic system cuts cycle times and boosts productivity on site. The Escorts Hydra 12 crane price in India starts at ₹18.0 Lakh onwards*, based on configuration and location. This Escorts crane is an ideal choice for contractors, EPC firms, and crane rental operators looking for a cost-effective 12-ton hydra crane.
Escorts F15 vs Escorts HYDRA 12: Which Pick-n-Carry Crane to Buy?
The Escorts F15 and the Escorts HYDRA 12 are both pick-n-carry cranes from the same Escorts Kubota brand, so parts and service come from the same dealer network for either machine. The F15 is the bigger of the two, with more engine power, four-wheel drive and a taller boom, which suits outdoor construction and infrastructure sites with rough ground. The HYDRA 12 is smaller and simpler to run, with a tighter turning radius that works well inside factories, warehouses and tight yards.
In India, cranes in the HYDRA 12's 12-tonne class are some of the most common rental cranes on the road, so there is strong demand if you plan to hire it out by the shift, and it is easy to sell later. The F15's bigger capacity means fewer buyers but a higher rent for each job, so it suits a fleet owner or contractor who already has steady demand for heavier lifts. See the full range of cranes, or read our crane buying guide for more on picking the right lifting capacity.
Escorts F15
Pros:
Higher maximum lifting capacity of 14 Tonnes
More powerful engine with 101 HP
4 Wheel Drive for better off-road performance
Synchromesh transmission with more speeds
Higher maximum speed without load
Larger fuel and hydraulic tanks for longer operation periods
Larger boom height for extended reach
Cons:
Potentially more complex operation due to more features
Heavier operating weight might reduce mobility in certain conditions
Bigger turning radius may not be suitable for extremely tight spaces
Escorts HYDRA 12
Pros:
Adequate for lighter tasks with a 12 Tonnes lifting capacity
Simpler transmission and drive type could mean easier maintenance and operation
Cons:
Less powerful engine with 50 HP
2 Wheel drive may limit off-road capabilities
Lower maximum speed without load
Smaller capacity of fuel and hydraulic tanks
Lower maximum boom height limits reach
Pros:
Cons:
Closing Recommendation
Both cranes come from the same Escorts Kubota brand, so service and parts are equally easy either way. Choose the Escorts F15 when your jobs need higher lifting capacity, four-wheel drive and outdoor rough-ground work. Choose the Escorts HYDRA 12 when you want a simpler crane that turns easily in tight yards and has strong rental demand. So match the machine to your work: Escorts F15 for heavy outdoor lifts, Escorts HYDRA 12 for easy indoor work and shift rental.
Escorts F15 Vs Escorts HYDRA 12 Crane Price, Technical Specifications & Features
The Escorts F15 is a 14-ton farana pick and carry crane built for industrial plant, construction, and infrastructure lifting applications across India. A VECV diesel engine rated at 101 HP powers its hydraulic system, providing responsive lift-and-carry performance. The crane has a rated lifting capacity of 14 tonnes and a boom that extends to 18.2 metres. All-wheel steering and a low centre of gravity allow for safe load transport across various terrains. Its compact design permits access to tighter work areas with minimal ground preparation. The Escorts F15 crane price in India starts at ₹36.5 Lakh onwards*, based on configuration and purchase location. This Escorts crane is a practical choice for contractors, EPC companies, and crane rental firms needing pick and carry capability.
The Escorts Hydra 12 is a 12-ton pick and carry crane designed for construction, infrastructure, and industrial lifting across India. It runs on an E-Kubota diesel engine that produces 50 HP, ensuring reliable hydraulic performance on busy job sites. The Hydra 12 crane can lift a maximum of 12 tonnes at a specific radius with a boom length of 9.6 to 11.3 metres. Its compact size provides excellent stability on uneven ground. A well-designed hydraulic system cuts cycle times and boosts productivity on site. The Escorts Hydra 12 crane price in India starts at ₹18.0 Lakh onwards*, based on configuration and location. This Escorts crane is an ideal choice for contractors, EPC firms, and crane rental operators looking for a cost-effective 12-ton hydra crane.
45 differ · 8 identical
Key highlights: Escorts F15 vs Escorts HYDRA 12 Crane
Escorts F15
Escorts HYDRA 12
Engine Make
Volvo Eicher E494
Escorts Kubota E4.391NA
Articulation
36.3º
Up to 54°
Max. Speed
49 km/h
29 km/h
Fuel Tank
220 L
50 L
Hydraulic Tank
228 L
70 L
Overall Length
9725 mm
10050 mm
Overall Width
2450 mm
2410 mm
Wheelbase
3950 mm
4350 mm
Boom Luffing Range
-10° to +65°
-5° to + 62°
Warranty
1 Year
1 Year
Key highlights: Escorts F15 vs Escorts HYDRA 12 Crane
Escorts F15
Escorts HYDRA 12
Engine Make
Volvo Eicher E494
Escorts Kubota E4.391NA
Articulation
36.3º
Up to 54°
Max. Speed
49 km/h
29 km/h
Fuel Tank
220 L
50 L
Hydraulic Tank
228 L
70 L
Overall Length
9725 mm
10050 mm
Overall Width
2450 mm
2410 mm
Wheelbase
3950 mm
4350 mm
Boom Luffing Range
-10° to +65°
-5° to + 62°
Warranty
1 Year
1 Year
Full specifications: Escorts F15 vs Escorts HYDRA 12 Crane
Engine
Escorts F15
Escorts HYDRA 12
Engine Make
Volvo Eicher E494
Escorts Kubota E4.391NA
Engine Type
CEV Stage V, Diesel Engine, High Pressure Common Rail System (HPCR) technology, Turbocharged, Water Cooled, ECU Control Engine Management System
CEV Stage V, 4 cylinders, Naturally Aspirated, Electronic, Common Rail Direct Injection
Max Power
101 HP (74 kW) @ 2200 RPM
50 HP (37 kW) @ 2200 RPM
Battery
12 V, Negative Earth, 150 Ah
12V, Negative Earth, 88 Ah
Alternator
NA
NA
Lifting Capacity
Escorts F15
Escorts HYDRA 12
Max. Lifting Capacity
14 Tonnes
12 Tonnes
Transmission & Clutch
Escorts F15
Escorts HYDRA 12
Drive
4 Wheel Drive
2 Wheel drive
Type
Synchromesh transmission with 10 forward and 2 reverse speeds with Auxiliary Gear Box and Hi-low & 2WD/4WD mode selector
Heavy-duty transmission developed especially for crane applications. Constant mesh gearbox coupled with a robust straight drive axle. 8 forward and 2 reverse speeds with high/low selector lever.
Steering System
Escorts F15
Escorts HYDRA 12
Steering Type
Full power orbitrol with twin hydraulic double acting rams
Articulated power steering hydraulically controlled through 2 hydraulic jacks
Articulation
36.3º
Up to 54°
Turning Radius
7200 mm
6300 mm
Hoist Mechanism
Escorts F15
Escorts HYDRA 12
Hoist
Hydraulically operated with 4 falls Built in Safety brakes
4 falls; Hydraulic winch (Winch Capacity 10T) Rope dia 13 mm
Hoist Speed
NA
NA
Brakes
Escorts F15
Escorts HYDRA 12
Front Wheels
Fully air operated 'S' cam dual curcuit brakes on front wheels
‘S’ cam pneumatically actuated drum brakes
Rear Wheels
Fully air operated 'S' cam dual curcuit brakes on rear wheels
Pneumatically actuated disc brakes
Parking Brake
Air operated; spring actuated; fail safe brakes
Hand control valve operated; Air-assisted Hydraulic parking brakes at all wheels
Service Capacity
Escorts F15
Escorts HYDRA 12
Engine Oil
NA
NA
Fuel Tank
220 L
50 L
Hydraulic Tank
228 L
70 L
Transmission Oil
NA
NA
Overall Dimensions & Weight
Escorts F15
Escorts HYDRA 12
Overall Length With Bucket
9725 mm
10050 mm
Overall Width
2450 mm
2410 mm
Overall Height
3215 mm
3050 mm
Wheel Base
3950 mm
4350 mm
Operating Weight
16020 kg
10300 Kg
Front Track
1825 mm
1820 mm
Rear Track
1825 mm
1670 mm
Front Tyres
11 x 20-16 PR (4 Nos.)
10.00 x 20-16 PR (4 Nos.)
Rear Tyres
11 x 20-16 PR (4 Nos.)
13.00 x 24-12 PR (2 Nos.)
Boom
Escorts F15
Escorts HYDRA 12
Telescoping
4 parts boom; 3 parts hydraulically powered & fully synchronized; 4th part power extended & manually pinned for safety
3 Part, box type, heavy duty boom, hydraulically operated, through 2 jacks at boom top
Derricking
NA
Through double acting jacks
Boom Luffing Time
NA
NA
Boom Luffing Range
-10° to +65°
-5° to + 62°
Boom Height
18.2 m
9.6 m, 11.3 m
Full specifications: Escorts F15 vs Escorts HYDRA 12 Crane
Engine
Escorts F15
Escorts HYDRA 12
Engine Make
Volvo Eicher E494
Escorts Kubota E4.391NA
Engine Type
CEV Stage V, Diesel Engine, High Pressure Common Rail System (HPCR) technology, Turbocharged, Water Cooled, ECU Control Engine Management System
CEV Stage V, 4 cylinders, Naturally Aspirated, Electronic, Common Rail Direct Injection
Max Power
101 HP (74 kW) @ 2200 RPM
50 HP (37 kW) @ 2200 RPM
Battery
12 V, Negative Earth, 150 Ah
12V, Negative Earth, 88 Ah
Alternator
NA
NA
Lifting Capacity
Escorts F15
Escorts HYDRA 12
Max. Lifting Capacity
14 Tonnes
12 Tonnes
Transmission Clutch
Escorts F15
Escorts HYDRA 12
Drive
4 Wheel Drive
2 Wheel drive
Type
Synchromesh transmission with 10 forward and 2 reverse speeds with Auxiliary Gear Box and Hi-low & 2WD/4WD mode selector
Heavy-duty transmission developed especially for crane applications. Constant mesh gearbox coupled with a robust straight drive axle. 8 forward and 2 reverse speeds with high/low selector lever.
Steering
Escorts F15
Escorts HYDRA 12
Steering Type
Full power orbitrol with twin hydraulic double acting rams
Articulated power steering hydraulically controlled through 2 hydraulic jacks
Articulation
36.3º
Up to 54°
Turning Radius
7200 mm
6300 mm
Hoist Mechanism
Escorts F15
Escorts HYDRA 12
Hoist
Hydraulically operated with 4 falls Built in Safety brakes
4 falls; Hydraulic winch (Winch Capacity 10T) Rope dia 13 mm
Hoist Speed
NA
NA
Brakes
Escorts F15
Escorts HYDRA 12
Front Wheels
Fully air operated 'S' cam dual curcuit brakes on front wheels
‘S’ cam pneumatically actuated drum brakes
Rear Wheels
Fully air operated 'S' cam dual curcuit brakes on rear wheels
Pneumatically actuated disc brakes
Parking Brake
Air operated; spring actuated; fail safe brakes
Hand control valve operated; Air-assisted Hydraulic parking brakes at all wheels
Service Capacity
Escorts F15
Escorts HYDRA 12
Engine Oil
NA
NA
Fuel Tank
220 L
50 L
Hydraulic Tank
228 L
70 L
Transmission Oil
NA
NA
Overall Dimension And Weight
Escorts F15
Escorts HYDRA 12
Overall Length With Bucket
9725 mm
10050 mm
Overall Width
2450 mm
2410 mm
Overall Height
3215 mm
3050 mm
Wheel Base
3950 mm
4350 mm
Operating Weight
16020 kg
10300 Kg
Front Track
1825 mm
1820 mm
Rear Track
1825 mm
1670 mm
Front Tyres
11 x 20-16 PR (4 Nos.)
10.00 x 20-16 PR (4 Nos.)
Rear Tyres
11 x 20-16 PR (4 Nos.)
13.00 x 24-12 PR (2 Nos.)
Boom
Escorts F15
Escorts HYDRA 12
Telescoping
4 parts boom; 3 parts hydraulically powered & fully synchronized; 4th part power extended & manually pinned for safety
3 Part, box type, heavy duty boom, hydraulically operated, through 2 jacks at boom top
Questions buyers ask about the Escorts F15 vs Escorts HYDRA 12
Ans.
The Escorts HYDRA 12 is better for shift rental work. Its 12-tonne class is one of the most common sizes in the Indian crane rental market, so it gets more work calls and is easy to sell later when you want to upgrade.
Ans.
The Escorts HYDRA 12 works better inside tight spaces. It has a more compact turning radius and higher articulation, so it turns and moves easily between machines and racks where a bigger crane would struggle.
Ans.
The Escorts F15 takes a bit more skill to drive well. It has a more powerful engine, four-wheel drive and more gear speeds, so a new driver should get proper training before running it on a busy site.
Ans.
Yes, both cranes come from the same Escorts Kubota brand, so they use the same dealer and service network. This makes parts and repairs equally easy to find for either machine.
Ans.
The Escorts F15 is better for outdoor construction sites. Its four-wheel drive and taller boom help it handle rough ground and reach higher lifts than the HYDRA 12, which is built more for flat, indoor-style yards.
Ans.
The Escorts HYDRA 12 generally needs less maintenance. It has a simpler transmission and a naturally aspirated engine, which are usually easier and cheaper to service than the F15's larger engine and multi-speed transmission.
Escorts F15 Vs Escorts HYDRA 12 - Compare Price & Availability Across 600+ Locations in India
Compare Escorts F15 Vs Escorts HYDRA 12 price and availability across all major cities in India including Mumbai, Pune, Kolkata, Hyderabad, Chennai, Bengaluru, Delhi, Ahmedabad, Indore, Jaipur, Guwahati, and 600+ more locations.
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