The Knuckle Boom Lifts designed by Genie are quite powerful four wheel drive and four wheel steering capable machines. These units allow for work to be performed effectively, even on rough terrains. The menu based ALC 1000 electronic controls help to allow the user to make easy calibrations to the equipment and its components. System diagnostics are available in many languages. On the Z-80/60 model, there are dual fuel options available. The optional Deutz diesel powered engine is turbocharged, but quiet. It allows for better performance at higher altitudes. It also carries more than enough torque for better grade-ability and terrain.
The 4-wheel drive ability and full-time positive traction adds improved traction for tough terrain. The Z-135/70 only provides four-wheel steering. Optional features on this particular unit comprise coordinated, crab, front wheel, and rear wheel steering to give the machinery more agility. The full-time active oscillating axle helps enhance wheel contact on irregular ground. All of these features make Genie Knuckle Boom lifts easier and smoother to use on irregular terrain.
Genie's engine-powered articulating Z-booms are bigger compared to any other Genie units. They feature a continuous 360 degree turntable rotation and telescoping jibs that are designed to give the user a much better range of motion and reach. The Z-boom design gives the units exceptional up and over positioning capability that ranges from 8.83 meters on the Z-80/60 unit to 23.01 meters on the Z-135/70 model. The XChassis expanding axle is an ingeniously engineered mechanism utilized for both retracting and extending axles out and in of stowed position. When the axle is stowed the width of the Z-135/70 unit machine is just 2.46 meters. The Z-80/60 has fixed width axles for easier transport.