The Knuckle Boom Lifts designed by Genie are quite strong four wheel drive and four wheel steering capable equipment. These units allow for work to be performed efficiently, even on rough terrains. The menu based ALC 1000 electronic controls help to allow the user to make easy calibrations to the machinery and its parts. System diagnostics are offered in many languages. There are dual fuel options available on the Z-80/60 model. The optional Deutz diesel powered engine is turbocharged, but quiet. It allows for enhanced performance at higher altitudes. In addition, it carries more than enough torque for better terrain- and grade-ability.
Better traction for tough terrain is due to full-time positive traction and four-wheel drive. The Z-135/70 is available with four-wheel steering. Optional features on this model comprise crab, coordinated, rear wheel and front wheel steering to give the machine more agility. On the Z-80/60 the full-time active oscillating axle helps improve wheel contact on irregular ground. All of these features make Genie Knuckle Boom lifts smoother and easier to operate on irregular terrain.
Though these units are larger compared to other Genie engine-powered articulating Z-booms, they have features such as continuous 360 degree turntable rotation and telescoping jibs to provide the user with incredible range of motion and reach. The Z-boom design gives the models outstanding over and up positioning capability which varies from 8.83 meters on the Z-80/60 unit to 23.01 meters on the Z-135/70 unit. The XChassis expanding axle is an innovatively designed device utilized for both extending and retracting axles in and out of stowed position. When the axle is stowed the width of the Z-135/70 unit machinery is just 2.46 meters. The Z-80/60 has fixed width axles for easier transport.