Skyjack launches electric boom range

Skyjack launched it new eBoom articulated range in the UK yesterday.

The introduction of the pair of rough terrain articulating eBooms close to Skyjack’s base in the UK yesterday, reflects the new regional approach the Canada-based company has taken, with its manufacturing plants in Hungary, where the lifts will be produced, along with Canada, Mexico and China. Effectively producing equipment close to market wherever possible. 

The AGM-battery powered SJ45 AJE + and SJ60 AJE + feature 15.7m (51ft) and 20.1m (66ft) working heights, respectively, and are suitable for indoor and outdoor use.

Hybrids next 

During the launch event, the company said the electric boom lifts are set to be followed by hybrid versions next year, providing customers with the option of diesel, electric or hybrid, depending on their requirements and the market.

The new electric versions have both passed European and Australian certification and will be available on the market in the next couple of weeks. The company added that North America was not yet ready for the pure electric models but that the situation would be monitored as and when the time was right. 

Features of the SJ45 AJE + and SJ60 AJE + include all-electric axle-based drive providing a high level of traction, while AC electric traction and pump motors deliver high torque power and consistent multi-function capability, said the company.

From left, at the launch event: Mark Trowman, Product Manager, EMEA; Corey Connolly, Senior Product Manager; and Andreas Stumpf, Vice President Sales and Operations for EAME.

The electric models are capable of more than a typical full day’s use on a single charge. An additional 30 minutes of reserve allows the units to operate in stowed drive for travel to a charging point.

The oscillating axle works in conjunction with the drive system to keep all four tyres in contact with the ground, even in the roughest of terrain. The improved traction on the models provides a noticeably smoother ride and consistent multi-function with up to 45% gradeability, while non-marking tyres are included as standard for indoor use. 

Flexible features

With platform capacities up to 454kg, and three people in the basket, the upper control box shares a similar layout with IC machines, plus new battery status indicator, among other relevant adaptions.

The lower control box has been updated with a range of features, including state of charge and electric brake release switch. 

Both models offer the flexibility to work both inside and out, even in emission restricted areas.

Another area of flexibility is commonality of parts, with all the main components shared between models across the range and electric components shared with all current and future electric-powered machines. 

“All Skyjack booms are designed with ease of maintenance and service in mind to maximize uptime and minimize costs.

“As always, the key components are easily accessible and all wiring is colour coded and numbered for ease of use,” said Mark Trowman, Product Development and Project Manager EAME, Skyjack Europe.

“With efficient, maintenance free batteries and no engine maintenance requirements, our new electric booms further promote low cost of ownership and operation.”

Eco first 

The company said it had chosen the 415 Ah AGM batteries over lithium as they fitted in with the architecture of the machine but also as it had noted a preference from customers for this option, which remains low maintenance but do not have the associated costs as lithium.

Skyjack introduced its Eco mark as part of it goal to address environmental requirements and long-term sustainability. The Eco features include:

• The SJ45 AJE + and SJ60 AJE + eBooms.
  42% operational carbon saving compared to previous model,
• Zero emissions,
• <70 dB inherently quiet machine operation (excluding alarms),
• 90% recyclable by weight,
• 50% less hydraulic connections and optional bio-degradable hydraulic oil,
• Telematics and remote diagnostics reduces site visits and operational carbon footprint.

The new models use Skyjack’s Easydrive, under which the boom lift drive function operates in accordance with the general orientation of the turret’s counterweight over the chassis.

The Skyjack SJ45 AJE +

For example if the joystick is forward, the counterweight is facing forwards, to allow the unit to move in the general direction of the joystick’s movement.

“Our new electric boom range was developed to provide a clean, quiet, sustainable rental solution with no emissions, lower operating costs and increased utilization,” explained Skyjack President Charlie Patterson. “The new range remains simple and reliable, while providing an environmentally friendly and sustainable choice for rental.”

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