JLG moves into full electric

JLG has launched a full electric range of construction booms with the launch of three models – 340AJ, 450AJ and 520AJ – offering working heights from 12m to 18m and an unrestricted platform capacity of 250kgs.

Equipped with Lithium batteries and 2-wheel drive as standard, the new electric range (340AJ, 450AJ and 520AJ) offers similar lift speeds and platform capacities as their conventional diesel counterparts.

While the new models launched at Bauma in April, it is likely they won’t be seen in Australia this calendar year.

Barrie Lindsay, Director of Engineering in Leicester, UK said: “As a manufacturer we have improved access to alternative drive systems now the availability of electric drive technology has matured. At this point we are ready to match technology with application. Also, battery development has improved throughout the years and faster and opportune charging is a reality. For JLG it is imperative there should be no performance reduction in uptime, duty cycles or terrain ability.

“JLG is committed to the continued development of more environmentally friendly access equipment. Working on urban job sites where noise levels and stringent emission standards apply, this range provides an alternative for conventional combustion operated equipment,” Barrie said.

Featuring 2-wheel drive, the range provides good terrain capability in semi-rough terrain. Maintenance and parts requirements are limited, which is a benefit of electric drive over conventional diesel, ie: no filter replacements or engine maintenance is needed, simply because there are none, Barrie said.

“The market is now ready for full electric construction boom lifts. For a relatively small price difference, equipment owners benefit from improved usability because this machine can work outside, but also indoors if needed,” Jan-Willem van Wier, Senior Product Marketing Manager for JLG access equipment in EMEA said.

“While these machines perform equally to conventional boom lifts, they do not produce hardly any noise or emissions. The market wants more electric solutions; which can operate in urban areas. With the availability of these electric midsize construction booms our customer’s fleet can be optimised and made future proof.”

According to JLG Australia Managing Director, Bob Mules, the company first launched hybrid machines several years ago in line with customer demand especially in the European market where strict emissions standards are in place.

Bob said we can expect to see another JLG hybrid model launch soon.

Visit: www.jlg.com