Video: A Deep Dive into Firstgreen Industries Electric Skid Steers

Is This the Most Versatile Skid Steer Lineup on the Market?

The electric construction equipment market is slowly evolving in America, often only making small waves at major tradeshows like CONEXPO-CON/AGG and bauma. However, some manufacturers don’t rely on these events to make a splash. Enter Firstgreen Industries, a company dedicated to battery-powered electric skid steers. Unlike traditional OEMs, Firstgreen has no diesel legacy, focusing entirely on electric innovation. The company and its awesome electric products are the focus of our latest Machine Heads video.

Who Is Firstgreen Industries?

Based in North Carolina, Firstgreen has been developing electric skid steers for six years. Manufactured in the Czech Republic and imported for U.S. sales, Firstgreen’s machines address a growing demand for electric equipment. Their key selling points are versatility, lower maintenance costs and savings on fuel.

Electric Power Means More Versatility

Electric skid steers like Firstgreen’s models can operate indoors or in semi-open spaces without fumes or noise. They’re perfect for arenas, barns or sheds. Battery power also expands jobsite versatility, which is a major draw for rental houses and contractors seeking efficient, eco-friendly options.

Firstgreen’s Product Lineup

Firstgreen divides its electric skid steers into four categories:

• Elise Line: Traditional skid steers with cabs, available in open or enclosed configurations.
• CBL Line: Cabinless models designed for remote control use, with a standard hinge pin height.
• Rockeat Line: Low-profile, cabinless models ideal for mining or low-clearance environments.
• MiniZ: A stand-on mini skid steer, the company’s only tracked model.

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Lift Capacities and Features

The Elise and CBL lines offer three models each, with lift capacities of 1,500 to 2,600 lbs and hinge pin heights up to 144 in. The Rockeat models have lower profiles but still provide impressive lifting power. All Firstgreen machines come standard with remote control and can be operated via smartphone or a Danfoss controller.

Why Remote Control?

Remote operation is crucial for places where diesel engines and operators in cabs aren’t ideal. This includes environments like interior demolition, ports, sewer systems, or dusty areas. By combining battery power with remote control, Firstgreen maximizes skid steer versatility.

Battery and Hydraulic Power

Firstgreen machines use auxiliary hydraulics to run existing attachments, unlike some brands that replace hydraulics with electric actuators. Drive motors and hydraulic pumps support four speeds, allowing precise customization. You can even switch off the hydraulic pump to conserve battery life. Firstgreen also offers electric attachments, like a snowblower, that use less energy than hydraulic versions. This dual approach lets operators choose between traditional or optimized attachments.

Battery Options and Longevity

Firstgreen provides multiple battery options tailored to specific needs:

• Flash Battery: A lithium option with long runtime and fast charging.
• Silad and Hoppecke Batteries: Lead-acid options with capacities of 240Ah to 400Ah, designed for hot-swapping.

Flash Batteries offer the best overall performance, while Silad and Hoppecke provide flexibility with partial recharging and quick swaps. This variety ensures operators have power solutions suited to their tasks.

Spotlight on the MiniZ

The MiniZ offers eight to 10 hours of runtime, impressive for a tracked, stand-on skid steer. With a lift capacity of nearly 900 lbs, it fits through a 32-in. doorway and supports a variety of attachments, making it ideal for indoor demolition.

Go Try Some Firstgreen Electric Skid Steers

Firstgreen Industries is paving the way for electric equipment with thoughtful design and versatile options. Their commitment to battery power enables more efficient, eco-friendly machines. Whether it’s indoor work or reducing maintenance costs, Firstgreen’s lineup provides solutions that traditional machines can’t match. If electric versatility is your goal, Firstgreen is a brand to watch. In fact, watch it above.

Wayne Grayson is the Machine Heads editor for Compact Equipment.