The electrification trend reaches straight boom lifts. But does electric make sense for your application?
Upfront Cost Comparison (26m Class)
- Diesel: $95,000 – $115,000
- Electric: $125,000 – $145,000
- Premium: +$30,000 for electric
Operating Cost Comparison (Annual, 2-shift)
Diesel
- Fuel: $12,000 (8 hrs/day, $1.50/L)
- Engine maintenance: $3,500
- Hydraulic service: $1,500
- Total: $17,000/year
Electric
- Electricity: $3,500 (8 hrs/day, $0.12/kWh)
- Battery maintenance: $500
- Hydraulic service: $1,500
- Total: $5,500/year
Break-Even Analysis
Electric premium: $30,000 | Annual savings: $11,500 | Payback: 2.6 years
Electric Advantages
- Zero emissions (indoor use allowed)
- Quiet operation (<75dB)
- Lower operating costs
- Less maintenance (no engine)
- Regulatory compliance (urban areas)
Diesel Advantages
- Lower upfront cost
- Unlimited runtime (refuel in minutes)
- Better for remote sites
- Higher resale value (currently)
Verdict
Electric wins for: Indoor work, urban sites, 2+ shift operations, strict emission zones. Diesel wins for: Remote sites, occasional use, budget constraints.