The need for battery-powered access equipment will increase as battery capacity increases, predicts Krishna Patel, Head – Access – SBU, Maco Corporation (India) Pvt. Ltd.

How do you estimate the opportunities for access equipment business in India?

Currently, the demand for access equipment in India is at an all-time high, particularly in market demand. Many mega projects are already in the execution phase, while others are scheduled to begin in 2022. Aside from ongoing and completed projects, we anticipate additional infrastructure development in the coming years. The government’s emphasis on improving Indian infrastructure will increase the demand for access even more. We expect that demand will remain vital for another 2-3 years.

How are the fluctuating fuel prices influencing the adoption of battery-based/electric-powered equipment in India?

The constant fluctuation in fuel prices has put a lot of strain on the infrastructure companies carrying out the projects. Because of the continuous price increase, battery-powered vehicles and equipment are becoming more popular. Customers are now considering it as a viable alternative to fuel-powered equipment. Nonetheless, a large portion of the required equipment is still diesel-powered. As battery capacity improves, there will be greater demand for battery-powered access equipment.

How are these trends furthering consumers’ buying/leasing/renting patterns?

I believe the demand for equipment rentals and procurement of aerial work platforms and access equipment is gaining momentum every quarter. We at Maco are initiating possible and required measures to contribute to this trend. Also, considering the requirements, we help them choose whether to buy or rent equipment for their projects. It primarily depends on the client’s and the customer’s needs, and as I mentioned already, we are anticipating a robust increase in the demand for access equipment in India.

Which new features and technologies do you offer in MEWP? Who are the primary buyers of these solutions? 

GENIE’s Fuel Electric (FE) or hybrid power technology will be in high demand in the coming years. The FE machines are designed for indoor and outdoor applications, increasing rental opportunities and Jobsite utilisation. Customers looking to save fuel costs would most likely purchase FE machines.