Riwal showcases converted electric boom at APEX

Using APEX as a launch platform, European equipment rental company Riwal debuted a converted JLG 800AJ articulated boom from diesel to electric.

The 800AJ conversion to electric was done following a request from KLM Royal Dutch Airlines for a 26 m working height aerial work platform for use on aircraft maintenance inside the hangars that would not expose the employees to emissions or loud noise. The diesel engine and the fuel tank were replaced by an electric engine, battery pack, charger and control mechanics of the electric engine. The customized machine is fully compliant with the TÜV test requirements.

"This machine didn't exist before," said Norty Turner, CEO of Riwal. “Riwal’s vision is to deliver the best customer experience in the industry and the JLG800AJ Electric by Riwal is an excellent example of how we translate this vision into practice. At the same time this aerial work platform is a sustainable alternative to diesel powered machines”.

Currently, Riwal has four of the units in its fleet and more could be converted in the future, Turner told AI. For more on the boom, see Lindsey Anderson's video interview with Turner on KHL's Video Zone.