At this year’s industry events, one thing became very clear: equipment manufacturers are expanding beyond their traditional categories to compete across more segments of the construction equipment market.
Two companies making notable moves are Skyjack and MEC, each taking different approaches to growth and innovation.
Skyjack is expanding its lineup of rough terrain scissor lifts, electric slab scissors, and hybrid articulated boom lifts, while MEC is pushing innovation even further by entering an entirely new equipment category — the carry deck crane market.
Together, these developments highlight a larger trend in the industry: manufacturers are broadening their portfolios to meet the evolving needs of contractors and rental fleets.
One of Skyjack’s most significant additions is the SJ6940RT rough terrain scissor lift, a machine designed to compete in the high-capacity outdoor lift segment.
• 69 ft working height
• 40 ft platform height
• Up to 1,500 lb platform capacity
• Large platform with deck extension
• Four-wheel drive designed for rough terrain jobsites
The SJ6940RT scissor lift is built for demanding outdoor environments such as:
• Steel erection
• Industrial maintenance
• Large commercial construction
• Infrastructure and utility projects
A major advantage of Skyjack equipment continues to be its focus on mechanical simplicity and serviceability.
By minimizing unnecessary electronics and complex systems, Skyjack machines are often easier to maintain and faster for technicians to service, which helps rental fleets reduce downtime and keep equipment working in the field.
With the introduction of the SJ6940RT, Skyjack is expanding its presence in the large rough terrain scissor lift category, placing it in more direct competition with other high-capacity machines commonly used in rental fleets.
Skyjack is also strengthening its electric slab scissor lineup with machines like the SJ3232E electric scissor lift, designed primarily for indoor construction, facility maintenance, and warehouse operations, adding another key piece to Skyjack’s growing equipment portfolio as the company continues building a competitive lineup with machines available across multiple aerial lift categories.
• 38 ft working height
• 32 ft platform height
• Narrow chassis for tight indoor maneuverability
• Zero-emission electric power
Electric slab scissors remain popular across rental fleets due to Skyjack’s straightforward engineering philosophy.
Skyjack is also expanding into the hybrid articulated boom lift category with the SJ45 AJHE+ and SJ60 AJHE+ boom lifts.
Hybrid boom lifts are becoming increasingly important as jobsites demand lower emissions, quieter operation, and improved fuel efficiency.
• Hybrid power system reduces fuel consumption
• Lower emissions for mixed indoor/outdoor environments
• Quiet operation for noise-sensitive areas
• Improved efficiency compared to traditional diesel boom lifts
Hybrid technology allows operators to maintain the reach and performance of traditional boom lifts while reducing environmental impact.
As regulations and sustainability goals continue to influence construction projects, hybrid equipment is becoming an increasingly valuable addition to rental fleets.
While many manufacturers are expanding their equipment lineups, MEC is taking one of the most significant innovation steps in the industry by entering the carry deck crane market.
Historically known for its scissor lifts and aerial work platforms, MEC is now expanding beyond aerial equipment with the introduction of the CD-9T carry deck crane.
The CD-9T carry deck crane is a 9-ton carry deck crane designed for compact lifting applications in industrial and commercial environments.
Carry deck cranes are commonly used in:
• Steel construction
• Industrial plants
• Mechanical and HVAC installation
• Infrastructure work
• Maintenance and shutdown projects
• Jobsites with limited space for larger cranes
These cranes are valued for their compact size, maneuverability, and ability to lift and transport loads across tight jobsites.
MEC is bringing fresh design thinking to a mature equipment segment. With the introduction of the CD-9T carry deck crane, the company is aiming to modernize the category through several operator-focused design improvements.
• Low-profile machine design for improved operator visibility
• 360-degree sightlines from the operator station
• Climate-controlled cab for improved operator comfort
• Modernized controls for smoother load positioning
• Compact footprint ideal for congested industrial environments
By prioritizing visibility, operator comfort, and precise machine control, MEC is introducing a modern approach to a long-established equipment category.