Genie to Launch S-85 XC FE and S-85 XC E Boom Lifts at ARA Show

Genie will debut the S-85 XC FE and S-85 XC E boom lifts at the ARA Show, Jan. 29-Feb. 1 in Las Vegas at Genie Booth 2045. Lithium-ion technology eliminates the need for battery replacement and maintenance in Genie’s third generation of its FE hydrid technology. Rough-terrain capability combined with electrification delivers high utilization and increased jobsite access reduces ownership costs 15 percent for electric machines and 6 percent for FE hybrid units.

Four independent AC drive motors, 4-wheel drive and active oscillating axles enable operators to navigate rough terrain. The S-85 XC is commonly used for steel erection, rail and bridge construction, and in shipyards and refineries, offering the features of the S-85 XC in hybrid and electric configurations.

“These boom lifts are a complete upgrade, with thoughtful engineering and more than 80 quality improvements with the goal of keeping our machine in the field longer with fewer service intervals,” said Dominik Damm, director, product management, booms portfolio.

Right-Sized lithium-ion batteries eliminate maintenance and reduce costs

The FE and E models are both powered by 48-volt lithium-ion batteries, which is the smallest lithium-ion battery in the industry in the 85 foot / 27 meter height class, the company said. These right-sized batteries, which are more cost effective, are made possible by efficiency improvements throughout the machine that lower energy consumption compared with competitors’ booms.

“Utilizing a 48-volt lithium-ion battery limits cost transfer to customers by keeping the battery small, but still is capable of supporting a full day’s work,” said Damm. “Lithium-ion batteries also do not require maintenance like FLA or AGM batteries, so there’s no watering or replacement. The batteries also are smart, with software management systems to protect themselves from damage. Additionally, we’ve made service easier because the battery is only 48 volts. Specialized technician certifications are required for anyone working on a 60-volt or larger battery, so we’ve made service access easier by keeping the battery smaller.” 

The battery is rated for extreme temperatures (from -22° F/-30° C to 122° F/50° C). Genie is extending its warranty to five years.

“Genie’s Lithium-Ion solution has spent years in design and has been rigorously tested to ensure compliance with global standards,” said Damm, explaining that the intelligent Battery Management System software protects the battery throughout operation to ensure it won’t be damaged by any operation the machine is capable of.

Two battery sizes are available: standard size for the FE hybrid, or an XC battery for the electric E machine. The XC version of the 48-volt battery has a 7-hour rapid recharge, compared with 10-15 hours that other machines on the market require. The XC battery can be added as an option on the FE machine.

Genie’s third generation hybrid system on the S-85 XC FE includes the 48-volt Lithium-Ion battery and 24 hp, DPF-free engine. The engine/generator combo provides enough power to run a full workday in electric mode, or a full work week on a single tank of fuel. It also allows for “dead-battery” operation: when the batteries are completely drained, the engine/generator provides enough power to run any function. Rapid recharge of 4.5 hours is twice as fast as other systems on the market, according to the maker.

Performance features ensure high rental rates for fleet utilization

Beyond the flexibility hybrid and electrified equipment provides for working on a variety of jobsites, the dual capacity XC models mean operators can load the platform up to 1,000 pounds / 454 kg for the majority of the lift’s range, and to 660 pounds / 300 kg through the full envelope. This increases productivity by supporting heavier lifting jobsite needs.

Genie’s powerful Lift Power solution also is available in these new machines, expanding the performance benefits of these machines to even more jobs. These new models are the first-ever electrified boom lifts to offer a lithium-ion powered AC generator welder-ready tool. Genie’s Lift Power welder-ready tool is capable of providing 7kW for the Australian market, and up to 12 kW for the North American market—the highest power output in the industry for welding applications. A 3kW power inverter, available globally, provides power to the platform to support power washers, drills, and other power tools.

Efficient design, quality improvements positively impact maintenance and ownership costs.

“More than 80 design upgrades to the S-85 XC FE and S-85 XC E demonstrate Genie’s attention to continuous quality improvement with the intention of reducing overall cost of ownership,” Damm said.

Here are just a few examples.

Improved solid-state proximity switches have replaced limit switches. Switches are now fully sealed, preventing weather damage. And because there is just one part, moving parts that could cause fault codes have been reduced. Onboard LEDs on the new switches also will indicate their status for easy serviceability.

From sharp steel edges to fasteners, Genie has made intentional design changes to improve durability and prevent rust. The machines’ cable tracks have been better organized, improving both serviceability and longevity. Durable separators are now found every second track, spacers separate hoses and cables, and hose and cable wear has been tested to prevent overlapping and rubbing.

Also, the IP67-rated electric AC drive motors and maintenance-free Lithium-Ion battery are integral to reducing costs associated with ownership. The AC drive motors are fully sealed, preventing dust and water ingress, and they are brushless. Overall, there also are fewer hydraulic components, which reduces the chance for hydraulic leaks and spills, and many maintenance points are eliminated.

The 24 hp engine that delivers hybrid power for the FE model is DPF free, which means it does not require complex after treatment, reducing maintenance costs. This smaller engine also experiences less wear and tear, costing less to maintain.

Genie’s new Plus+1 control system has been updated to speed up troubleshooting. Damm explained: “The new LCD screen display helps technicians assess faults more quickly. For example, in the past it was a trial-and-error process for a technician to adjust hydraulic pressures on the secondary boom. Now, a test can be run that provides a visual display of the hydraulic pressures. The software automatically sets the pressure points between the desired high and low.” Also, 50 percent of the required recalibration is automated for faster service and less down time.

The combination of industry-leading Lithium-Ion performance, features designed for productivity, and up to a 15 percent decrease in total cost of ownership means Genie’s S-85 XC FE and S-85 XC E boom lifts deliver high rental fleet utilization for our customers, and greater job site productivity for equipment operators.

For more information, visit www.genielift.com.