Skyjack has bet that rental companies and contractor customers will appreciate the versatility of a range of hybrid electric rough terrain articulated booms that offer three operating modes—electric, automatic, and manual.
The first two models, SJ45 AJHE+ and SJ60 AJHE+, were on the company’s stand at Bauma in Munich. They will hit Europe first, then come to North America. They feature 51- and 66-foot working heights.
Mark Trowman, Skyjack UK’s product development manager for EAME, emphasized the units’ rough terrain capabilities. “They’ve been designed to meet true job site performance expectations, whether it be navigating various terrain conditions or lifting the platform,” he said.
“Increased platform capabilities up to 1,000 pounds, plus a superior driving experience and consistent multifunction capability delivers a superior operator experience,” Trowman said.
Based on the company’s 2023 all-electric boom launch, the hybrid range offers the same AC electric traction and pump/generator motors that are designed for high-torque power and multifunction operation.
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The drive system uses a high-performance AC induction traction motor and AC pump generators to optimize current torque, power, and speed. The oscillating steer axle works in conjunction with the drive system to keep all four tires in contact with the ground. Operators can drive the machine at full height.
How charging works on Skyjack lifts
A 24.8-horsepower diesel engine provides sustainable onboard charging, and the engine/generator is configured in a series with an electric drive motor providing mechanical drive power.
Trowman explained the hybrid electric models have two ways of charging. First, users can plug the MEWP into an external power source. This allows a 100% charge using the machine’s onboard smart battery charger.
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In the electric setting, the unit runs on electric power derived from the AGM battery pack only. A reserve option feature prevents a full discharge of the batteries to promote optimum battery life.
The second charging method involves two settings that can be used to achieve a bulk charge of up to 85% from the engine on the machine by itself. The Automatic setting has the engine start charging when the charge level decreases to 35% and stops when the charge level hits 85%. Trowman says bulk charging to 85% takes less than 2 ½ hours.
In the Manual setting, the engine can be started at any time and it will charge and maintain the batteries at 85%. In the event the engine is started with the charge level at or above 85%, the engine will run for three minutes and stop
An optional self-generated power feature runs off a dedicated generator and switch. It allows the engine to run continuously and provide power to the platform. If the batteries are charged to 85% or above, the engine will continue to run without adding additional charge to the battery until the platform power switch is turned off.
ECO benefits
The two models are marked with Skyjack’s ECO mark, which means they have benefits to help support rental companies and contractors in their sustainability programs. According to the company, ECO benefits of the SJ45 AJHE+ and SJ60 AJHE+ include:
- A 16% weight reduction
- 62% less fuel
- 3% reduction in engine noise (excluding alarms)
- E-Boom ECOSTART (Stop-Start system)
- HVO compatible (90% reduction in GHG versus regular diesel)
- Bio-degradable hydraulic oil (optional)
- 85% recyclable by weight.
