In the outdoor exhibition space at inter airport were a number of manufacturers demonstrating their latest equipment designed specifically for the needs of passengers with restricted mobility (PRM). One of them was Aprilia, Italy-headquartered AVIOGEI Airport Equipment, which had on its stand its new fully electric Thunderlift E ambulift
inter airport Europe 2017 represented the first public outing for the new electric version of AVIOGEI’s popular Thunderlift ambulift, although orders for the equipment have already been placed – Norway’s Trondheim Airport has ordered one, as has Rome Fiumicino International Airport (Fiumicino operator Aeroporti di Roma also already has 12 of the diesel versions of the Thunderlift in its fleet).
The lift of the Thunderlift 6000E that was demonstrated on the stand extends from ground level up to a height of 5.8 metres, and the vehicle has a load capacity of 2 tonnes (12 passengers plus driver).
The lithium-ion battery pack can store charge for at least 8 hours of operations, perhaps as many as 12, explains Massimiliano Martone, international business development & marketing manager at AVIOGEI. The battery can be recharged in just four hours, and offers power of 80V at 1,000 amp/hours. The high-performance batteries work well even in very cold conditions, require very little maintenance and are equipped with a wireless battery monitoring system.
As well as a standard version, there will be an electric-powered VIP variant, while a Thunderlift 4000E is also to be offered. This model will lift up to 4m, also be able to operate under autonomous electric power for up to 12 hours and be charged in as little as four. Its batteries will supply 80V at 625 amp/hours.
AVIOGEI’s Thunderlifts, whether in the standard diesel or electric-powered versions, have a spacious cabin that can be customised according to customer needs. A large front platform offers stability and safety, and there is a foldable front platform option too. The driving position is in the main cabin, allowing close interaction with the PRMs and a high level of all-round visibility.
The AVIOGEI stand featured a number of ambulifts other than the 6000E. As well as the standard diesel-powered Thunderlift (which comes equipped with Deutz or Hatz engines), AVIOGEI’s product range incorporates the smaller PED PRM vehicle, and the NT 280 EH electric-powered belt loader.
