01.11.2011

Genie electrifies RT scissors

Genie is expanding its compact Rough Terrain scissor lift range with the introduction of new battery electric versions.

The three new scissor lifts GS-2669 DC, GS-3369 DC and GS-4069 DC offer similar performance characteristics to the diesel powered versions. The range will be launched at next week’s Lift and Access Showcase & Symposium in Scottsdale, Arizona, with the 4069DC on display.

All three models are driveable at full height and Genie claims that the GS-4069DC is the world’s first 40ft full drive-height electric scissor lift in its class – one assumes compact – 69 inch wide- class?
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The new GS60DC models include 1.5 metre deck extensions.

The new models adopt the AC direct electric drive system from the company’s Z40/23N for increased efficiency and excellent gradeability. Genies patented active oscillating axle is standard on the front of the machine and automatically senses and adjusts to the uneven terrain. Rough Terrain tyres are standards, with turf tyres available as an option.

Stowed drive speed is slightly faster than the diesel models at 4.5 mph and considerably faster than most other Genie electric scissor lifts. Genie says that the platforms on the Ansi models will be slightly larger than on the existing IC versions, without affecting the lift capacity.
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Genie's direct AC drive system has been developed extensively since it was unveiled at the Rental show in 2007

Senior product manager Jeff Weido said: “Genie was the first to offer AC electric drive technology on our ground-breaking Z40/23N articulating boom. Now, we have brought this innovation to our exceptional line of electric rough terrain scissor lifts. These models offer increased energy efficiency, productivity, reliability, and durability because the AC drive motors are now sealed to reduce maintenance and service costs.”

“Diesel deliveries on jobsites can cost upwards of $5 a gallon. Using electric scissor lifts provides a huge saving, especially those that stay on the jobsite from start to finish. This can be significant for jobs that last up to a year. It’s simply a great product for the rental market”.
Global production of the new DC scissor lifts is planned during the first quarter of 2012.

Vertikal Comment

The time for electric Rough Terrain scissors is clearly coming, the concept is far from new but with AC drive and increased fuel costs, not to mention the push to lower emissions suggest that the product’s time has perhaps come. With a major manufacturer like Genie promoting the concept that is almost certain to be the case.