Two British companies have launched what they claim is the world’s first hydrogen-powered boom lift.
Plant hire firm Speedy Hire and mobile elevating work platforms (MEWP) manufacturer Niftylift worked together to create the zero-carbon access platform. It is part of a £9m investment in sustainable powered access products.
The companies said the zero-carbon MEWP is the first viable alternative to diesel-powered equipment available on the market, including in the early stages of construction sites, where electric is “virtually non-existent”.
The hydrogen-electric access platform has a G20 hydrogen cylinder and fuel cell technology. It can typically operate for up to five days on a single electric charge. Additional range is available from the hydrogen fuel cell, emitting zero carbon into the atmosphere without impact on reliability.
Other benefits of the MEWP include quiet operation, low weight resulting in reduced transport costs and fuel, and the lowest floor loadings and ground pressures in the industry.
Speedy Hire’s chief executive, Dan Evans, said: “Our investment and collaboration with Niftylift enable us to accelerate the sustainable and technological evolution in the sectors where we operate. It also supports our ambitious plan to become a net-zero business by 2040, 10 years ahead of the government target, whilst also enduring commercial sustainability against traditional alternatives for our customers.”
