Hybrid Knuckleboom Crane Delivers Power, Efficiency and Zero Emissions
When I-State Truck Centers rolled out an all new knuckleboom equipped truck fitted with a hybrid electric-powered crane, it called the model an “innovation that pays dividends for your business and the environment.” Behind that statement is a purpose-built vehicle that brings together several proven products and technologies.
Built on a Western Star 47X chassis with a Detroit DD13 engine and an Allison transmission, the unit incorporates a Fassi F275A.2.25 Articulated Knuckle Boom Crane with 47-foot, 9-inch horizontal reach and a lifting capacity of 2,888 pounds. Its unique engine-off crane operation capability comes from an Odyne Systems parallel hybrid drive solution approved by Allison Transmission.
“Battery-powered hydraulic cranes offer reduced emissions and fuel savings, lowering an operation’s carbon footprint and costs for fuel and maintenance,” said Tim Wolf, general sales manager at I-State Truck Centers. “Odyne electrification technology also contributes to safer and more productive jobsites by enabling communication for crews and compliance with noise ordinances.”
Odyne has successfully given our customers a complete emissions free crane solution, noted Jason Harlow, engineering & Fassi product manager at Fascan International. “A Fassi knuckleboom coupled with a hybrid electric powered hydraulic system is beneficial,” he said. “We have found the quietness of a hybrid battery system allows for safer crane operation around the jobsite because the operator, signalperson and other crew members can communicate easier without diesel engine noise.”
Harlow also pointed out that the Fassi knuckleboom crane on the model offered by I-State was hydraulically tailored to match the Odyne hybrid system to achieve the longest battery run time. “Operators also do not have to sacrifice speed of the crane,” he added, “which has been maintained compared to a normal transmission PTO (power take-off) system.”
Long Term Success
Leonard Lincoln, director of sales at Odyne Systems, related that the company has been developing electrification systems for commercial trucks since 2009 and has supplied their technology for more than 85 fleets in a variety of vocations. “Odyne makes the industry’s only ePTO system approved for Allison 1000 Series, 2000 Series, 3000 Series and 4000 Series transmissions,” he added. “Our long-term relationship with Allison provides a distinctive advantage, including access to service across their dealer network.”
The value proposition for zero emissions power for hydraulic, air and electric systems is straightforward, according to Lincoln. “Clean, quiet, emissions-free power significantly improves the efficiency and sustainability of commercial trucks,” he said. “Fleets can also realize a productivity improvement by extending work hours when noise ordinances would otherwise limit off-hour jobsite activity.”
“Other savings can come from reduced engine emissions system maintenance by significantly lowering idle times on jobsites,” Lincoln continued. “Less brake wear is also evident due to regenerative braking, and there’s been less engine wear overall with Odyne systems, which cuts service needs and boosts resale values. In addition, the system is low maintenance, requiring only just fluid level monitoring and wear inspections.”
The Odyne system has a zero emissions stationary work mode and can be field recharged for uninterrupted jobsite use providing engine-off 120V or 240V AC export power, which also replaces the need for a generator. The system maintains the vehicle’s 12-volt system and, as an option, can operate the vehicle as a hybrid during driving.
The longevity of the Odyne hybrid system has been demonstrated at more than 12 years in other applications. “This reliability stems from IP67-rated components for dust and water protection, thermally managed power electronics and sealed connecting systems,” Lincoln said. “The application also does not impact the engine or transmission warranty.”
Offered with flexible packaging options to minimize the impact on cargo and tool carrying capacity, the Odyne system can be placed under the truck body and requires only minimal vehicle changes. Easy to integrate with a range of trucks and types of equipment, the system can power cranes rated from less than 80,000 to 250,000 foot-pounds.
Growth Potential
With increasing demand for mobile, flexible lifting solutions, the knuckleboom crane market is poised for growth, noted Bernie Faloney, president & CEO of Fascan International. “Urban development, infrastructure upgrades and sustainability goals are all driving adoption,” he added.
“Leading manufacturers are pushing the envelope with lighter materials, smarter controls and greener powertrains,” Faloney continued. “As technology evolves, expect them to play an even bigger role in shaping the future of lifting operations.”
Overall, the suppliers and upfitters agree that knuckleboom cranes are an ideal application for engine-off power solutions. Because their design allows for tight maneuverability and precise load placement, they are often used in confined or urban environments where a compact footprint, the ability to work long hours and noise reduction are key.
That combination of needs is precisely what I-State, Odyne and Fascan have addressed with the application of a knuckleboom crane powered by an engine-off solution. “Knuckleboom cranes with a hybrid system aren’t just a trend, they’re a strategic asset,” said Wolf. “For industry professionals looking to boost efficiency, safety and adaptability, these technologies offer a compelling solution without compromising performance.”
