Choose Your Power: Skyjack’s Hybrid and Battery-Electric Booms Land in North America

Skyjack’s newest articulating booms are crossing the Atlantic. After debuting at bauma 2025 in Munich, the company’s new hybrid-electric and battery-electric rough terrain booms — the SJ45 AJE+, SJ60 AJE+, SJ45 AJHE+ and SJ60 AJHE+ — are now available across North America. The launch marks another milestone in the rapid electrification of mobile elevating work platforms (MEWPs). As contractors and rental houses push for lower emissions and quieter operation, battery and hybrid systems are quickly becoming standard options across the access equipment market. From the press release:

“Our new range of hybrid and all-electric rough terrain articulating booms provide a clean, quiet, and sustainable rental solution that features low or no emissions, lower operating costs, and increased utilization,” shared Skyjack President Charlie Patterson. “Skyjack’s new range is a simple, reliable, and environmentally-friendly choice for diverse jobsites across North America.”

Expanding the Electric Lineup

Skyjack, a division of Linamar Corporation, designed its new boom lineup to match the performance of diesel-powered counterparts while delivering cleaner operation. The models share common specifications, capacities and parts across power types, letting rental companies select their preferred drive system within a familiar machine. The battery-electric SJ45 AJE+ and SJ60 AJE+ deliver zero-emissions performance ideal for indoor and low-noise zones. Meanwhile, the hybrid-electric SJ45 AJHE+ and SJ60 AJHE+ combine electric drive with an efficient Stage V 24.8-hp HVO-compatible diesel engine for longer run times and all-weather versatility. Skyjack’s hybrid design offers three operating modes — electric, automatic and manual — allowing operators to select the most efficient setup for each job. In automatic mode, the onboard generator activates only when battery charge drops below 35 percent and stops at 85 percent, completing a bulk charge in less than 2.5 hours.

Jobsite Power, Minus the Compromise

Skyjack engineered these new booms to match the strength and responsiveness of traditional diesel models. Each machine includes advanced systems designed to enhance traction, control, and efficiency:

• AXLDRIVE — A true mechanical four-wheel drive system with an oscillating steer axle and manually controlled rear differential for confident traction and up to 45 percent gradeability.
• EASYDRIVE — An intuitive direction-sensing function that moves the machine in the same direction as the joystick input, simplifying control.
• SKYRISER — Keeps the riser and main pivot moving in a straight vertical line, reducing repositioning when working close to walls or facades.
• SPEEDYREACH — (SJ60 models) Enables operators to cycle between maximum height and ground level without engaging the riser, saving time on repetitive tasks.

Together, these systems deliver smooth, predictable operation and efficient work cycles — whether powered by batteries or in hybrid mode.

Efficient Power and Smart Connectivity

Battery-electric models can work multiple days on a single charge. Hybrid units can fully recharge batteries in under three hours using the onboard engine generator. Both versions feature AC electric traction and pump motors for high torque and consistent multi-function performance. Each machine includes ELEVATE Live, Skyjack’s QR-based telematics platform that gives users instant access to machine data, manuals and service history via smartphone — no app required. This digital connection supports remote diagnostics and reduces downtime, aligning with growing industry expectations for connected, serviceable fleets.

Designed for Rental Fleets

Ease of service remains a hallmark of Skyjack design. The new booms feature color-coded and numbered wiring, a simple control interface and a digital diagnostics display showing real-time readouts. There’s no need for external calibration or special tools for daily troubleshooting. Bolt-in platform railings simplify repair and replacement. Major service points are easy to reach. Many parts are shared across Skyjack’s articulating boom range, helping rental operations reduce inventory and streamline maintenance. With platform capacities up to 1,000 lbs and room for three workers, the SJ45 and SJ60 series can handle heavy tools and materials. Optional accessories, including power-to-platform generators, expand versatility on diverse jobsites. From the press release:

“The Skyjack team designs our innovative articulating booms to maximize uptime and longevity. Our new machines feature easy-to-understand control systems, with an on-board digital diagnostics display that allows operators to see real-time, simple language readouts. No plug-in calibration is necessary for day-to-day troubleshooting, all major service points are easily accessible, and common parts across our boom range make for straightforward maintenance and repairs,” highlights Jonathan Reinhart, Skyjack’s Product Manager. “Skyjack booms are renowned for a superior driving experience, a consistent, multi-function capability, and machine reliability.”

Cleaner, Quieter, Ready for Work

Skyjack’s new booms also support the company’s ECO mark — a designation for equipment with measurable sustainability benefits. The electric models are up to 90 percent recyclable by weight. They feature fewer hydraulic connections and can use biodegradable hydraulic oil. Hybrid models provide similar environmental gains while extending runtime flexibility.

Electric and hybrid MEWPs are becoming the default choice for contractors balancing performance, cost and carbon targets. By matching the power and durability of diesel machines with advanced battery and hybrid systems, Skyjack positions its new SJ45 and SJ60 ranges squarely within that trend. These new articulating booms are now shipping to dealers and rental yards across North America. Maybe go check one out.

Keith Gribbins is publisher of Compact Equipment.

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