Snorkel lithium RTs enter full production

By Leila Steed15 July 2021

The narrow width Snorkel S2755RTE can work in confined spaces with zero emissions.

Snorkel has begun full production on five new lithium-ion battery powered scissors lifts.

The new range of rough terrain scissors comprises lithium-ion battery versions of the S2255RTE and S2755RTE narrow width machines and the S2770RTE, S3370RTE and S3970RTE standard width units.

Snorkel said, “These scissor lifts are designed to offer a true zero emission rough terrain solution, without compromising on the reliability and four-wheel drive capabilities of the diesel equivalents.”

While the narrow width S2255RTE and S2755RTE have maximum working heights of 8.5m and 10.1m respectively, the maximum working heights of the three standard width models range from 10.1m to 13.8m.

The models, which are now being manufactured at the company’s UK and New Zealand factories, are part of the company’s RTE equipment range and include non-marking tyres and four-wheel drive with 35% gradeability.

Snorkel RTE scissor lifts come equipped with two 5.75kWh battery packs as standard.

While the two battery pack system installed in the new scissor lift models are maintenance-free, the units themselves incorporate a built-in battery management system, which Snorkel said means the batteries “last up to twenty-times longer” than traditional lead acid batteries.

Snorkel said, “In both test conditions and real-life applications, the standard two battery pack system has been proven to deliver at least an eight-hour shift on a single charge, and in some cases, up to one week between charges, subject to usage.”

According to the manufacturer, the minimal maintenance requirements of the battery and electrical systems also results in 93% lower servicing costs than a standard an engine.

The scissor lifts are also equipped with an AC electric motor that provides up to 62% less noise emissions than their diesel equivalents.

Snorkel S3970RTE lithium-ion battery powered compact rough terrain scissor lift.

The lower noise volume means they can be used in areas with noise restrictions. In addition, the lack of an engine fan means that dust is also reduced which allows the machines to be used in low emission zones.

Matthew Elvin, CEO at Snorkel, said, “We are delighted to extend our proven lithium-ion battery solution to these five popular compact rough terrain scissor lift models. Within the past two years, we have developed and fully released eight electric zero emission models with four-wheel drive capabilities, with more to come.

“We understand that our customers need robust, reliable and easily adopted products that help them achieve their net zero goals without compromising on performance, and are proud to offer these innovative lifts which deliver on all fronts.”