Hybrid Powered Access Platforms: Everything You Need to Know

In this blog we look at hybrid powered access platforms and how they can improve your fleet and if they’re the right option for you and your needs.

Hybrid access platforms are becoming increasingly popular as sites look for a versatile but energy-efficient option to 100% diesel engines. But how can you get the most from your hybrid machine?

How does a hybrid powered access platform work?

Firstly, let’s look at the basics. How does a hybrid machine work? Hybrid systems get their power from both batteries and a diesel-powered engine. On most machines, you can select the hybrid mode – where both systems work in unison, and 100% battery operated mode. But getting the most from your hybrid comes from knowing how and when to use each of the systems.

What are the benefits of a hybrid powered access platform?

There are a number of benefits when you choose to hire or purchase a hybrid powered access platform over diesel or fully electric models.

1. Flexibility – hybrid models give you the best of both worlds, they use both diesel and electric to power them. You can operate them using diesel and electric only or electric only.
2. Can be used indoors and outdoors – the option to choose between using diesel and electric or electric only allows you to use them indoors when using 100% electric mode.  
3. Batteries charge automatically when the machine is in diesel-mode.  
4. Fewer services – due to the machinery being less reliant on diesels and hydraluaic oils it means that it could require less costly services.
5. Zero emissions on 100% electric mode – hybrid powered access platform produces zero emissions when it is being used in electric mode which makes it perfect for indoors and also low emission zones.
6. Less noise pollution – hybrid models are less nosiy than compeltely diesel models making them perfect for reducing noise disruption and pollution.
7. Lower operating costs – hybrid powered access platforms can help you reduce opterating costs making them a cost effective solution. 

What are the different operations of a hybrid powered access platform?

Diesel Engine Operation

Operators can use the diesel engine when they are working in more challenging worksites, these could be outside or indoors – where site permits and with sufficient ventilation. Using the engine for at least 30 minutes will charge the battery, however, using in heavy-duty environments will cause the battery to decline depending on the power demand.

If you are looking to reduce your fuel consumption, you may want to switch to electric-only mode when doing stationary work.

Electric-Only Operation

The electric-only operation on hybrid-powered access machines is perfect for indoor jobs due to its quiet operation and zero emissions. Most machines can offer a full day’s work on just one charge. We recommend that you charge your machine overnight to be most efficient the following day, even if the battery levels are high.

For more information about the range of Hybrid machines available from Star Platforms visit our hire pages. 

How to hire or buy a hybrid powered access platform from Star Platforms?

If you’re looking to hire, we have electric or hybrid cherry pickers, scissor lifts, or  low-level platforms to choose from—we have over 4,000 powered access machines in our fleet and access to over 10,000 platforms nationally.

Alternatively, if you’re looking to purchase or hire electric or hybrid powered access platforms, then you’re in the right place. At Star Platforms, we have new and used access platforms for hire and for purchase.  If you need help choosing the right solution for your needs and requirements, then our team at Star Platforms can help – get in touch today.