JLG Industries, an Oshkosh Corporation company, now offers Bi-Energy technology for its X770AJ and X1000AJ compact crawler boom lifts.

This technology reduces the machine's noise and exhaust emissions, according to a press release. The system equips these JLG machines with two full-sized, independent power sources, combining an emissions-free lithium-ion battery pack with a dependable diesel engine to allow operators to work indoors and outside with one machine.

“The Bi-Energy system is designed to maintain the high performance and efficiency our customers expect from the X770AJ and X1000AJ, while minimizing their carbon footprint and decibel levels,” Angela Patterson, JLG boom lift product management specialist, said.

With this option, operators can choose the best power source for the application: either the engine or the lithium-ion batteries. This dual power source design means the JLG Bi-Energy models can be used in a wide variety of settings — from general greenfield construction projects to environmentally sensitive job sites, Patterson explained.

Reducing Emissions at Work Sites

Work Truck reported that one example of ways machine operators could utilize this technology includes driving the machine using the engine's power to where the overhead work needs to be done, then switching to zero-emissions, all-electric battery power to work at height for the remainder of the shift. Once the work is done, users can power the engine back up and drive the machine for use at another location, according to Patterson.

The X770AJ comes with a 100Ah 76V lithium-ion battery pack, while the X1000AJ has a 150Ah 76V lithium-ion battery pack; the lithium-ion batteries can be charged from an outlet at any time, including while the machine is in use. Both machines have a Kubota D902 21.6-hp at 3,200 rpm diesel engine.

These models also boast commonality with other JLG compact crawler boom lift models, increasing operators’ familiarity and confidence when using these machines. “Both new Bi-Energy models use the same console box layout as the rest of our compact crawler boom lift line, simply adding two new buttons to switch between the independent power sources,” Patterson said.

With these features, Patterson says that JLG’s Bi-Energy X770AJ and X1000AJ compact crawler boom lift models are ideally suited for use in cold weather applications and are also useful in:

• Airports.

• Building construction and restoration.

• Cleaning.

• Electrical.

• Facility and grounds maintenance.

• HVAC.

The new Bi-Energy option will be available on additional JLG compact crawler boom lifts in the future.