13.12.2021
Electric conversion pack for JLG 660SJ
JLG has developed a retrofit kit to convert its diesel powered 66ft 660SJ telescopic booms to battery electric power.
The new ‘Conversion Kit’ allows customers who own diesel powered JLG 660SJ to replace the engine with a lead acid or lithium-ion battery pack and electric motors that drive the hydraulic pumps. The pack is pitched as a way to extend the working life of existing boom lifts, as demand for emission free models increases.
The lead acid conversion kits are available now, with the lithium due in the spring. They are also covered by warranty programme. We are waiting to receive more details on the kit and will update when we do.
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A converted JLG 660SJ – decals included
The company said: “Converting diesel powered machines to electric battery power contributes to an increased residual value and lower total cost of ownership. Utilisation and rental rates could be improved as the converted equipment can be used on a wider variety of projects, particularly those requiring low emissions and noise levels, such as residential urban areas. It also extends the lifetime of equipment by making it compliant with more stringent regulations, which are expected to meet the EU’s 2030 deadline for 50 percent reduced emissions."
JLG’s European director of engineering, Barrie Lindsay, added: “While there is much to be gained from the conversion process, there are considerable losses, too. The CO2 emissions of a rental fleet will be reduced dramatically – with an estimated reduction of 200kg over five years, per machine. Running costs can be cut by up to 80 percent due to decreased fuel consumption. Maintenance costs are also significantly lower – as there are fewer consumable parts requiring regular replacement with electric batteries compared with diesel engines.”
The company has produced two videos to illustrate its rationale, the second is a little 'cheesy', but they both get the message across.
Vertikal Comment
JLG does not currently offer a battery powered version of its classic 60/66ft telescopic boom lifts, so this would seem to be a route towards creating such a beast from units currently in the fleet.
So far, we have not seen the technical detail behind this kit, but it looks like a good idea, that might also help boost residual values for the diesel powered machines, if buyers think that they can convert them at a later date.
Scott McCall
Red diesel removal from April, anticipated costs related to white diesel theft, more contractors targeting Net Zero - all reasons why non engine powered platforms will quickly come to the forefront. Sites are working hard to have electricity supplies in early to accommodate this.
Benji - hydraulic drive powered by a battery can work, the key is to use the correct battery technology - Snorkel have developed this and the user experience is enhanced - more power/torque, 4WD, excellent duty cycle and charging that fits in with a customer use pattern rather than a charging cycle that dictates how a customer can work.
Benji
In principle the idea is great.
Innovation like this might be the only way some companies/organisations/governments will achieve their emissions targets.
However it is a very costly way of getting an electric machine (I understand over 25% of new price). I imagine that commercially users and rental companies will not perform this fit on newer products, and therefore will still be stung by customers/projects demanding young fleet - irrespective of a relative 'overhaul'.
I also doubt it will not be optimised for electric power, rather just a fuel engine replaced by a battery engine (i.e. the wheel drives will remain hydraulic), and therefore user experience is likely to be poor.
If I'm right with the above I can't see this as being a viable option unless either cost, capability or customer perception changes.
It's a lot of money to add into net book value.