RT scissor lifts for the modern access sector

RT scissor lifts for the modern access sector

Greater capacity and the move towards electric power define the contemporary RT scissor lift sector.

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Airo’s new XL20RTE scissors lift was debuted at GIS Expo in Italy

The rough terrain scissor lift market is expanding, especially in Europe, updating products to meet modern workplace requirements.

This evolution means a surge in electrification and increased lifting capacities as urbanization demands taller buildings and higher lifting models. As JLG states, “With building footprints getting narrower and taller, customers are looking for equipment that offers greater lift height. Users also want to bring more materials and people to the work area, which drives the need for higher capacity.”

The growing demand for electric equipment

Europe is a significant market for RT scissor lifts and is highly focused on electrification, according to Christian Dube, associate product manager at Genie. “We’re observing a trend towards electrifying scissor lifts generally, leading to the conclusion that we’ll see RT scissor lifts move that way as well.”

Genie says RT scissors will likely see electrified power options soon. (Photo: Genie)

“However, there are challenges before full electrification makes sense for all rough terrain scissors, especially as these machines are often on-site early in construction, before electricity is readily available.”

ELS Lift is driving a green transformation across its product categories, beginning with the e-series in 2020. Their EL12-e slab scissor lift was introduced in the last quarter of 2021, and in 2023, they plan to produce their first fully electric rough terrain model, the RT12-E.

ELS Lift’s RTE 12-E will be production ready in 2023

The RT12-E includes direct electric drive and significant hydraulic improvements to reduce leakage by 80%-90%. The unit features maintenance-free batteries, reduced battery consumption, easier maintenance, and improved hydraulics for steering and wheels.

The expansion of electric access equipment

ELS attributes its latest technology trends combined with climate crisis and zero-emission demands as motivations for the new model. “Government-imposed emission criteria have become a priority,” ELS noted, “with the RT12-E offering high capacity and a wider platform compared to industry norms.” The RT12-E will feature fast-charging and stabilization as standard upon its launch.

An example of Sinoboom’s latest RT offerings includes the electric 1323RE (4389RE) and 1623RE (5389RE) lifts, offering 1-click leveling and lifting capacities up to 680kg.

The Sinoboom 1623RE. (Image: Sinoboom)

The 15.1 and 18.2m working height units provide a spacious, two-way extendable platform. The integrated pipeline assembly makes troubleshooting easier, and the double-door design eases maintenance.

These models also have wide-angle tilt, 1-click outrigger leveling, and superior off-road performance powered by twin 24 V (480Ah) batteries with 50% gradeability. They offer four-wheel drive, two-wheel steer, and gradeability of 50% for the 1323RE and 40% for the 1623RE, while weighing 8,500kg and 9,250kg respectively.

Large Capacity RT Scissor Lifts

Airo is also focusing on electric and larger capacity models, showcasing its XL20RTE unit in October 2021. The XL20RTE offers a working height of 20m with a double deck platform extending to 7.4m and a maximum load capacity of 700kg for up to six people. It has two maintenance-free AC electric motors and a 48V (455Ah) battery, enabling full electric operation for lower fuel consumption and noise levels.

JLG ERT476 scissor lift. (Image: JLG)

JLG redesigned its rough terrain scissor line in 2020, adding new models in late 2021 in response to growing demand for electric-powered lifts. The redesigned RT/ERT line, from the RT2669 to the ERT4769, offers diesel and electric units, with the capability to drive at height, allowing operators to work at a fixed height without needing to frequently ascend and descend.

Advanced scissor lift features

One notable feature of JLG’s RT line is QuikLevel Advanced, which automatically levels the machine on side slopes up to 4.5 degrees under certain conditions. The ERT models offer regenerative braking to recharge the battery and the Clean-Guard leak containment option to protect sensitive flooring from hydraulic leaks.

“As battery technology advances and stricter environmental regulations come into play, we expect electric models to gain popularity,” says JLG. They also introduced the AE1932 DaVinci lift, engineered with zero hydraulics and powered by a single lithium-ion battery, which recharges as the lift descends.

JLG also highlights the RT/ERT scissors' superior working area, offering 28% more space than competitors and designed for zero-platform offset to minimize the distance users must reach to work.

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Environmentally friendly scissor lifts

Dingli has upgraded its range to include electric versions of its 18m and 15m diesel models, such as the JCPT1823DCB and JCPT1523DCB.

Dingli’s JCPT3225DC electric version

These electric models share similar features with their diesel counterparts, including a 3.98m x 1.83m working platform, four-wheel drive, gradeability, and automatic leveling, with a maximum load capacity of 680kg.

Their launch came shortly after Dingli's release of the diesel JCPT3225RT and electric JCPT3225DC models, demonstrating the company's commitment to electrifying its portfolio.

The Haulotte HS15 E Pro. (Photo: Haulotte)

Haulotte was an early entrant into the electric RT scissor lift market, launching the 13m HS15 E and 16m HS18 E RT scissors in 2020 with similar performance to diesel models. Both lifts offer a 750kg load capacity, 45% gradeability, and optimized power distribution through 4-wheel drive. The large platform extends to 7.4m with both extensions deployed, and can handle low grip situations with manual differential wheel lock, and slope deployments up to 5 degrees with outriggers.

Range extender engines for access equipment

Haulotte’s HS15 E and HS18 E feature a 5.5kW range extender combustion engine for quick battery recharge, while the machine remains operational. This innovation addresses the charging infrastructure deficiencies and increasing environmental-friendly equipment requests, particularly in Europe.

Skyjack introduced its first electric rough terrain scissor lift over eight years ago with the SJ6832 RTE. This model balances diesel performance for diverse environments.

Demand for diesel powered access equipment

Skyjack notes, "Demand for the SJ6832 RTE and similar models has increased and is expected to grow, eventually surpassing diesel demand in specific regions."

The SJ6826RT scissor lift. (Photo: Skyjack)

Skyjack’s latest launches, the SJ9233 RT, SJ9243 RT, and SJ9253, including the new SJ9664 RT, address the market's needs for increased platform heights and capacities. These models feature Smartorque, a smaller engine that meets typical application requirements without emission control components.

Filling gaps

Skyjack emphasizes that while RT scissors offer platform size and capacity, boom lifts provide height. "The SJ9664 RT bridges this gap by offering a competitively priced rough terrain scissor lift with more capacity and height, unlike niche premium products."

US-based GMG showcases the capabilities of full-electric large rough terrain scissors with its 94-ERT series, including the 3394-ERT Tunnel, 4694-ERT, and 6094-ERT. These models feature up to 60ft platform heights and a GVW of up to 20,000 pounds, powered by GMG’s I-Power management system for long duty cycles.

Additional features include ReGen power back to the batteries, High Torque power takeoff, Variable Steering and Ramp Control.

Ultra compact

The compact S2755RTE from Snorkel offers a 10.1m working height and 300kg capacity. Its narrow design (1.45m wide) and workspace extension to 3.93m make it suitable for confined spaces. Capable of climbing gradients up to 35% and leveling up to 6 degrees front to rear and 10 degrees side to side, this lithium battery-powered scissor lift provides an eco-friendly alternative to diesel models.

Slab Scissor Lifts

Genie's slab scissor lifts are highly mobile, ensuring operators can maneuver easily in confined indoor and outdoor worksites with firm, level surfaces. With low noise levels, they offer excellent capacity and large platform workspace, making them ideal for environments requiring noise and emission restrictions.

Genie's electric slab scissor lifts have long battery life, allowing a full workday on a single charge, suitable for both indoor and outdoor use.

Small Scissor Lifts

Compact yet powerful, Genie micro scissor lifts offer full-sized performance in small packages. These lifts are highly maneuverable in tight spaces, fitting through standard doorways and elevators while providing lift heights of 19 feet and work platforms for two people.

Slab Scissor Lifts vs. Rough Terrain Scissor Lifts

While both types of scissor lifts offer large platforms, slab scissor lifts are best for firm, level surfaces indoors or outdoors. For uneven terrains, rough terrain scissor lifts enhance productivity with exceptional traction, speed, and gradeability.

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