Why are electric aerial work platforms more energy-efficient than diesel ones?

Main reasons electric aerial work platforms are more energy-efficient:

Superior Energy Conversion Efficiency:

• Electric motors: Convert 85%-95% of electrical energy into mechanical work, maximizing power utilization.

• Diesel engines:  Achieve only 30%-45% efficiency, losing most energy as heat through exhaust and cooling.

Elimination of Idling Losses:

• Electric platforms: Use minimal energy during standby or adjustments, nearly zero when idle (control systems only).

• Diesel platforms:   Continuously consume fuel at idle, causing significant energy waste in waiting or repositioning scenarios.

Regenerative Energy Recovery:

• Electric platforms: Regenerative braking converts descent energy into electricity, recharging batteries and reducing consumption.

• Diesel platforms:   Lack recovery systems, dissipating potential energy as heat or mechanical loss

Streamlined Drivetrain Design:

• Electric platforms: Direct-drive systems (e.g., in-wheel motors) reduce losses from mechanical components.

• Diesel platforms:   Complex transmissions (gearboxes, driveshafts) introduce friction and inefficiency.

Reduced Maintenance Energy Overhead:

• Electric platforms: Fewer moving parts lower maintenance frequency, reducing energy costs for repairs.

• Diesel platforms: Frequent maintenance of engines and transmissions increases energy overhead.

Unless it is in extremely remote areas where charging is impossible and extremely long periods of continuous high-intensity work are required, electric platforms are a more energy-efficient, environmentally friendly, economical (in the long term) and more in line with future development trends choice.