Genie hybrid for UK rental

The access platform, mini cranes and glass lifting rental company has taken the first two platforms available in the UK, supplied by Genie’s authorised distributor, Workplatform.

The Genie S-60 FE, the FE stands for fuel and electric, is the first hybrid and lightweight rough terrain telescopic boom in the 20m working height class.

Hird’s new Genie S-60 FE boom lift

Hird managing director Phil Hird said, “We’re delighted to be the first access rental company in the UK to be able to offer customers these Genie S60 FE platforms.

“It reflects our commitment to continuously modernise our access fleet and to provide clients with cutting edge platforms that deliver more productive and sustainable working at height options.

“With the price of diesel increasing dramatically, being able to operate with electric power and highly fuel-efficient hybrid technology is a big advantage that our customers recognise.”

Dean Brooks, operations director at Genie authorised distributor Workplatform, which has supplied the booms, said, “These high-performance hybrid Genie boom lifts will play a key role over the next decade in driving the transition away from thermal engines to full electric power.”

The telescopic boom is suited to steel and façade erection contractors wfor work internally and externally, especially for shed construction.

The Genie S-60 FE has a maximum working height of 20.6m and a platform height of 18.6m, with a maximum outreach of 12.3m and a platform capacity of 300kg.

It has two operational modes, all electric and hybrid, allowing the straight stick cherry picker to be used for indoor and outdoor working, which will allow Hird customers to greatly improve utilisation rates.

The Genie S-60 FE provides a full day’s operation in all-electric mode and for a  whole week on one tank of diesel fuel in hybrid mode.

Regenerative braking and start-stop technology maximises fuel and battery efficiency, while reducing the MEWP’s carbon footprint.

Phil Hird said, “More and more of our customers want to use hybrid or electric booms which is why we’re investing heavily in technology like this.”