Genie’s newest electric and hybrid telescopic boom lifts take aim at the rental market

Genie is introducing the all-new S-85 XC FE hybrid and S-85 XC E electric telescopic boom lifts at The 2025 ARA Show in Las Vegas. The lifts are powered by lithium-ion batteries and feature Genie's heavy-lifting and 4x4 drive capabilities in new hybrid and electric packages.

Four independent AC drive motors, four-wheel drive and active oscillating axles enable operators to easily navigate rough terrain. Genie's S-85 XC is designed for steel erection, rail and bridge construction, and in shipyards and refineries. Offering the features and capabilities of the S-85 XC in hybrid and electric configurations expands utilization to job sites that require quiet day performance, or emissions-free performance.

"These boom lifts are a complete upgrade, with thoughtful engineering and more than 80 quality improvements with the goal of keeping our machine in the field longer with fewer service intervals," says Dominik Damm, director of product management, Booms Portfolio.

Lithium-ion batteries eliminate maintenance and reduce costs

The FE and E models are both powered by 48-volt lithium-ion batteries, which is the smallest lithium-ion battery in the industry in the 85-foot / 27-metre height class. These smaller batteries, which are more cost effective, are made possible by efficiency improvements throughout the machine that lower energy consumption compared with competitors' booms, says the company.

"Utilizing a 48-volt lithium-ion battery limits cost transfer to customers by keeping the battery small, but still is capable of supporting a full day's work," says Damm. "Lithium-Ion batteries also do not require maintenance like FLA or AGM batteries, so there's no watering or replacement. The batteries also are smart, with software management systems to protect themselves from damage. Additionally, we've made service easier because the battery is only 48 volts. Specialized technician certifications are required for anyone working on a 60-volt or larger battery, so we've made service access easier by keeping the battery smaller," Damm said. 

The battery is rated for extreme temperatures (from -22° F/-30° C to 122° F/50° C) and Genie is extending its warranty to five years. 

Two battery sizes are available: standard size for the FE hybrid, or an XC battery for the electric E machine. The XC version of the 48-volt battery has a seven-hour rapid recharge, and the XC battery can be added as an option on the FE machine.

Genie's third generation hybrid system on the S-85 XC FE includes the 48-volt lithium-ion battery and 24 hp, DPF-free engine. The engine/generator combo provides enough power to run a full workday in electric mode, or a full work week on a single tank of fuel. It also allows for "dead-battery" operation: when the batteries are completely drained, the engine/generator provides enough power to run any function. 

Performance features for rental fleet utilization

Beyond the flexibility hybrid and electrified equipment provides for working on a variety of jobsites, the dual capacity XC models mean operators can load the platform up to 1,000 pounds/454 kilograms for the majority of the lift's range, and to 660 pounds/300 kilograms through the full envelope. 

Genie's Lift Power solution also is available in these new machines, making them versatile for more kinds of jobs. These new models are the first-ever electrified boom lifts to offer a lithium-ion powered AC generator welder-ready tool, says the company. Genie's Lift Power welder-ready tool is capable of providing 7kW for the Australian market, and up to 12 kW for the North American market—high power output for welding applications. A 3kW power inverter, available globally, provides power to the platform to support power washers, drills, and other power tools.

An efficient design and quality Improvements to lower maintenance and ownership costs

Here are just a few examples. 

• Improved solid-state proximity switches have replaced limit switches. Switches are now fully sealed, preventing weather damage. And because there is just one part, moving parts that could cause fault codes have been reduced. Onboard LEDs on the new switches also will indicate their status for easy serviceability.
• From sharp steel edges to fasteners, Genie has made intentional design changes to improve durability and prevent rust. 
• The machines' cable tracks have been better organized, improving both serviceability and longevity. Durable separators are now found every second track, spacers separate hoses and cables, and hose and cable wear has been tested to prevent overlapping and rubbing.

The AC drive motors are fully sealed, preventing dust and water ingress, and they are brushless. Overall, there also are fewer hydraulic components, which reduces the chance for hydraulic leaks and spills, and many maintenance points are eliminated.

Genie's new Plus+1 control system has been updated to speed up troubleshooting. "The new LCD screen display helps technicians assess faults more quickly," Damm explains. "For example, in the past it was a trial-and-error process for a technician to adjust hydraulic pressures on the secondary boom. Now, a test can be run that provides a visual display of the hydraulic pressures. The software automatically sets the pressure points between the desired high and low." In addition, 50 percent of the required recalibration is automated for faster service and less down time.

The combination of lithium-ion performance, features designed for productivity, and up to a 15 percent decrease in total cost of ownership means Genie's S-85 XC FE and S-85 XC E boom lifts deliver high rental fleet utilization, and greater job site productivity for equipment operators.