Electric and Hybrid Solutions
IMT’ s Commitment
In collaboration with Odyne Systems, IMT has displayed a wallboard loader to showcase efficiencies offered by electrified solutions.
fleet, including typical routes, payload requirements and operational priorities. By understanding the strengths of each technology, fleet managers can make informed decisions that align with their sustainability goals and operational demands.
For electric service vehicles as well, it’ s important to consider factors such as range limitations and the availability of charging infrastructure, which can have an impact on their suitability for certain applications.
Promising but Challenging
The potential for wider integration of electric and hybrid service trucks is promising, but it’ s not without challenges. One significant hurdle is the higher upfront cost of electric and hybrid vehicles compared to traditional diesel trucks, which can be a barrier to entry for some fleet operators.
Building out a robust charging infrastructure is also crucial and requires significant investment. The availability of charging stations, especially in remote locations where service trucks often operate, will be critical in alleviating concerns about range and ensuring uninterrupted operation.
Despite these challenges, manufacturers are paving the way by investing in the development of innovative solutions that meet the evolving needs of their customers. By embracing these technologies, service truck operators can not only reduce their environmental impact but also enhance their operational efficiency and gain a competitive edge in the market.
Looking to the future, it’ s clear that the service truck industry is on the road to a quiet, efficient and technologically advanced era, but getting there requires a willingness to embrace new approaches, invest in emerging technologies and step outside the comfort zone of traditional practices.
Ultimately, a commitment to innovation driven by a deep understanding of customer needs will ensure that future developments in electric and hybrid technology continue to help businesses navigate the evolving demands of the service truck industry.
John Field, sales manager at Iowa Mold Tooling Co.( IMT), oversees distributor outside sales and dealer development. In more than 37 years with IMT, Field has served in a variety of roles, starting as a production team member before transitioning into technical support and sales.
Iowa Mold Tooling Co.( IMT), an Oshkosh Corporation, first unveiled electric concept products at CONEXPO in 2023 by introducing several technologies and vehicles. The manufacturer supplies service vehicles, cranes, hydraulic loaders and air compressors for construction, material handling and utility markets. The new offerings leverage IMT’ s integration expertise and collaboration with hybrid and electrification system providers.
Outfitted on a Dominator I crane body with a 52,000-ft-lb rating, IMT’ s fully electric version of their 1015 telescopic crane has a lifting capacity of 3,200 pounds and a maximum horizontal reach of 15 feet. The Dominator I is also equipped with the manufacturer’ s IMT CMD. CTRL System that features a Load Moment Indicator( LMI) for real-time load information, multiple customization options and remote operation and diagnostic capabilities.
The electric 1015 service crane is powered by the IMT’ s EPEQ ELiMENT battery system and features the EPEQ AIR20 reciprocating compressor. The company developed the Electrified Power Equipment( EPEQ) products with Vanair, a manufacturer of mobile power solutions and electrified power equipment.
IMT and Vanair also created a hybrid solution for their line of Dominator III mechanics’ trucks fitted with service cranes. The solution integrates a 12,000-pound capacity, 30-foot crane, the IMT CMD. CTRL System and the EPEQ electric hydraulic power system and AIR45 rotary screw compressor on a body with an 81,000 ft-lb rating.
In collaboration with Odyne Systems, a manufacturer of plug-in hybrid technology for medium- and heavy-duty truck applications, IMT displayed a wallboard loader on a flatbed body. Designed to showcase efficiencies offered by electrified solutions, the vehicle featured an IMT 28562 Wallboard Loader with a 161,490 ft-lb crane rating, a lift capacity of 5,700 pounds, a maximum horizontal reach of 62 feet, 3 inches and a vertical lift height up to 71 feet, 4 inches.
Looking ahead, and recognizing the evolving needs of the industry, IMT continues to actively explore and develop both electric and hybrid solutions.
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