Following the introduction of the eWorker, Merlo’s first fully-electric telehandler, the Merlo Group are proud to unveil their newest innovation as the next generation of versatile and environmentally friendly machines continues in the new, fully electric Plug-In ROTO.
A part of the Generation Zero range, the Plug-In ROTO will be an option on all Merlo ROTO models. A plug-in power supply system will allow the rotating telescopic handler to be operated at full capacity without using the diesel engine once positioned for work.
All of the telehandler’s hydraulic functions are powered by an on-board electric motor, with operation of the ROTO available from the cab, the aerial work platform, or by a remote control.
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The performance of the Plug-In ROTO is identical to the standard diesel-powered machine, meaning reduced pollution, minimal noise and less fuel consumption without compromising on the power of the machine. The Plug-In ROTO is also able to operate indoors, in confined space and in areas where only zero-emission machines are permitted.
HOW IT WORKS
The Plug-In ROTO can operate in diesel mode when travelling on the road, and for positioning of the machine. Once in position, the ROTO can then be switched to Plug-In mode simply by connecting the supplied 50 metre cable to a compatible power source (400V, 32A or 64A).
At this point, the machine’s stabilisers can be positioned, and all of its hydraulic functions can be activated in electric mode (with the exception of frame shifting).
TECHNICAL SPECIFICATION

The Merlo Plug-In system consists of 4 elements: [A] control unit [B] electric motor [C] hydraulic pump [D] the 50-metre long power cable. The [A] control unit is located at the front of the machine’s frame. It contains the electrical system’s indicator lights, start and stop buttons (including emergency purposes) and the power supply type selector (diesel engine/electric motor).
The three-phase [B] electric motor powers a variable displacement hydraulic pump capable of delivering a flow rate of 70 L/min. This allows for the following operations to be performed:
• Boom extension/retraction and lowering/raising.
• Carriage rotation and engagement of auxiliary services
• Turret rotation
• Stabiliser positioning

See a video of the Plug-In ROTO in action on the Merlo YouTube channel:
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