UK's first Teupen Leo 18GT to AM Access

UK access hire specialist, AM Access, has taken delivery of the UK's first 'facelift' Teupen Leo18GT tracked Spiderlift.

The 17.9m working height model was one of the first in the Teupen line to be revamped under the German manufacturer's 'facelift' improvement programme announced last year. A new generation version of the Leo23GT with a 23m working height started shipping last autumn.

The enhancements are focused on making the machines simpler and quicker to use, as well as enhancing energy efficiency and reliability.

There has been a significant redesign of the lower boom and controls to simplify set-up and operation with rental fleets in mind.

AM Access director, Adam Gwynne said, "The new auto-leveling outriggers provide a far slicker set up on any terrain. The new remote provides impressive fine control which supports smooth and safe manoeuvrability. Also proving extremely beneficial is the basket design which assists with delicate maintenance and targeted survey works."

Following delivery and induction by Ranger Equipment, Teupen's UK and Ireland distributor, the platform went out on hire straightaway to survey one of the many heritage sites in Stoke-on-Trent where AM Access is based.

The 'facelift' enhancements also include improvements to power distribution, electronic systems and component layout for better fuel efficiency, speed, smoothness of handling and durability. Engine emissions and noise levels have been reduced to comply with future European regulations.

Mr Gwynne said, "The speed of the machine is remarkable and makes a huge difference to efficiency of work rates."

AM Access was a scaffold specialist for 25 years, branched into low-level access two years ago and started adding Teupen platforms summer 2010. In addition to its new 'facelift' Leo 18GT, the company runs a Leo15GT, two Leo 23GTs, including a 'facelift' model, a Leo 25T and has also placed an order for the 'facelift' Leo 25, due out soon.