The Knuckle Boom Lifts manufactured by Genie are rather powerful four wheel steering and four wheel drive 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 machine and its components. System diagnostics are offered in multiple 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 enhanced performance at higher altitudes. It also carries more than enough torque for better grade-ability and terrain.
Improved traction for tough terrain is due to four-wheel drive and full-time positive traction. The Z-135/70 comes standard with four-wheel steering. Optional features on this specific model comprise coordinated, crab, front wheel, and rear wheel steering to give the equipment more agility. On the Z-80/60 the full-time active oscillating axle helps enhance wheel contact on irregular ground. All of these features make Genie Knuckle Boom lifts smoother and easier to use on irregular terrain.
Genie's engine-powered articulating Z-booms are larger than any other Genie models. 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 models outstanding up and over 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 extending and retracting axles out and in of stowed position. If 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.