Getting the Most from your Niftylift Hybrid
The Niftylift Hybrid powertrain is versatile and efficient, allowing the machine to operate in a wide range of environments. Understanding how the system works is vital to getting the most from your machine.
Friday 16 October 2020
Watch this video to learn about the different functions that the Niftylift Hybrid system offers and how to maximise their effectiveness:
The Hybrid system allows a Niftylift to automatically draw power from both the Diesel engine and the electric battery pack.
There are two power modes; Hybrid - where both systems work in unison, and Electric-Only - which utilises the electric battery pack alone.
Selecting a power mode is easy:
- If the engine is running then the machine is operating in 'Hybrid Mode'.
- If the engine is not running then the machine is operating in 'Electric-Only Mode'.
Using the right power mode for the right location and taking good care of the batteries, will ensure you get the most from your Niftylift Hybrid.
'Heavy Duty' Hybrid Operation
During heavy-duty operation, the Niftylift will enter Hybrid 'Boost' mode, which offers the maximum power available - ideal for working outdoors.
During this operation, the battery charge will gradually decline based on the power demand.
Leaving the engine running for 30 minutes will allow the Hybrid’s 'Diesel ReGen' system to fast-charge the batteries, ensuring that they are ready for the next operation.
'Light Duty' Hybrid Operation
During light-duty operation - such as multi-function boom use - surplus power from the engine charges the batteries.
This keeps the batteries healthy and ensures there is energy stored and available for the next heavy-duty operation.
If the battery level reads 100 per-cent, a good way to save on fuel consumption is to switch off the hybrid system and use electric-only for stationary work.
Electric-Only Operation
Electric-only mode is ideal for working in noise-sensitive areas and indoor environments.
This mode offers a minimum of a full day’s work on a single charge - operating quietly with zero emissions.
The drive speed of the Niftylift will be lower than when the full Hybrid system is engaged, making this suited for manoeuvring through indoor locations.
The boom speed is identical to when the machine is operating with the full hybrid system.
When using the electric-only mode, it is imperative to charge the batteries overnight to ensure there is no disruption to the following day’s work.
Battery Charging
As a general rule, it is always good to charge the batteries from a mains source overnight, even if the battery levels are high.
This ensures the batteries are fully conditioned for any type of work the following day.
If a fast charge is required, then switching on the engine and leaving it running will charge the batteries quicker than charging from a mains power source.
It is usually best to utilise the hybrid system whenever possible, in order to keep the batteries in peak condition.
Battery Monitoring and Protection
If the machine’s charge drops to 15%, a warning will appear on-screen, as a reminder to charge the batteries.
If the charge drops even further to 10%, the hybrid system will constantly ReGen until the battery level is back up above 16%.
During this time the ‘Boost’ function will no longer be available and machine performance will be reduced.
To prevent this from happening in the first place it is best to keep the batteries at a healthy charge.
