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What’s Coming from JLG: Boom Lifts, Robotics and a Concept Telehandler

Jul 01, 2026

At A Glance:

From Reach to Robotics
  • 600AJ+ Boom Lift: New boom design, connectivity and serviceability

  • 860SJ+ Boom Lift: Enhanced lifting capability, operator functionality and serviceability
  • Drywall Robot: Worker-controlled automation for drywall finishing
  • 1043T Telehandler: Track-based mobility for challenging terrain
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Innovation in construction equipment isn't just about building bigger machines — it's about helping contractors and rental companies work more productively, efficiently and intelligently. From next-generation boom lifts and connected job site technology to robotics and a prototype telehandler, JLG is previewing several new innovations designed to support productivity, efficiency and evolving customer needs.

Here's a closer look at four developments from JLG coming soon that are generating interest across the construction and rental industries.

*As preview models, machine specifications are subject to change without notice.

A New Generation of Articulating Performance: The 600AJ+

The new 600AJ+ articulating boom lift represents the next evolution of JLG® boom lift design in the 60-ft class.

The "+" designation highlights a redesigned boom lift platform focused on increased performance, productivity, serviceability and versatility. The machine features an enhanced working envelope, including a maximum platform height of 60 ft, horizontal outreach of 38-ft and up-and-over height of 27-ft 3-in.

A key innovation is the machine's improved boom architecture. The single-function tower boom design eliminates the rear arm stack, helping reduce sway while improving speed to height.

Planned boom control modes include:

  • Go-Home
  • Go-To-Height
  • Planar Mode for Vertical Platform Tracking
  • QuikStik®

Together, these control options are designed to help operators position the platform more accurately and complete tasks more efficiently.

The 600AJ+ also incorporates JLG’s ClearSky Smart Fleet™ technology with two-way data transmission capabilities, providing interactive fleet connectivity designed to help fleet managers monitor machine performance, streamline maintenance planning and gain new productivity insights.

Additional service-focused improvements include:

  • A centralized fuse box
  • Protected internal power track design
  • Improved engine access for routine service
  • Single part number bi-directional tires
  • Enhanced swivel clearance and drive motor access

The Next Generation of Telescoping Productivity: 860SJ+ Boom Lift

JLG is also previewing the new 860SJ+ telescopic boom lift, a machine designed to build on the proven performance of the existing 860SJ platform while delivering expanded lifting capability, enhanced operator functionality and new serviceability features.

Designed for demanding construction, steel erection and industrial maintenance applications, the 860SJ+ is engineered to help operators maximize time at height through several productivity-focused enhancements.

Key planned features include:

  • The ability to transport more materials and personnel compared to traditional-capacity machines
  • Strong outreach performance to support maximized platform capacity
  • Increased machine positioning flexibility for navigating complex job sites and obstacles
  • The ability to run high-powered welding equipment directly from the platform when configured with approved power options

The machine also incorporates several serviceability enhancements designed to simplify maintenance and support uptime, including improved access to service points and centralized maintenance components. In addition, the 860SJ+ integrates ClearSky Smart Fleet technology to support machine monitoring and proactive maintenance planning.

Prototype Spotlight: The JLG Canvas Robotics Drywall Robot

As part of its expanding focus on robotics, JLG is previewing a Canvas Robotics drywall robot designed to help contractors improve productivity, consistency and worker experience on interior construction projects.

The worker-controlled system combines robotics and automation to perform multiple drywall-finishing applications on a single platform. The machine supports Level 4 spray and sanding processes and is engineered to deliver consistent, high-quality finishes while reducing wall-finishing touchpoints by up to 40%.

The preview model was designed with worker support in mind. By minimizing overhead work, the system helps reduce physical strain on workers' shoulders and backs. It also captures dust and silica to help improve job site safety and air quality.

Built for indoor environments, the compact battery-powered robot features self-driving capability with all-wheel steering, allowing it to maneuver in tight spaces and operate throughout a full workday on a single charge. Integrated analytics provide real-time machine and site data that can help contractors improve productivity, predictability and scheduling efficiency.

Concept Spotlight: The 1043T Quad-Track Telehandler

Designed for job sites where flotation and mobility are critical, the concept 1043T Quad-Track telehandler explores how track technology could expand telehandler performance in soft ground and challenging terrain conditions.

Built on JLG’s 1043 telehandler platform, the prototype replaces traditional tires with tracks to improve displacement in soft ground conditions such as mud, swampy terrain, sand and other demanding environments. Potential applications include shoring, municipal work, oil and gas projects and other job sites that regularly encounter extreme ground conditions.

The prototype features:

  • A 10,000-lb maximum lift capacity
  • Up to 7,000-lb capacity at full lift height
  • Approximately 1,700-lb capacity at maximum reach
  • New Dana axles
  • A redesigned cab with a new multifunction display
  • Multi-camera visibility system
  • Updated joystick controls
  • Increased engine output compared to the standard 1043 telehandler platform

The 1043T remains a prototype and is being evaluated as JLG explores future opportunities in specialty telehandler applications.

Looking Toward the Future

While these preview products range from production-intent boom lifts to emerging robotics and prototype equipment, they share a common goal: Helping customers improve productivity, efficiency and job site performance. Together, they offer a look at how JLG will continue to evolve its equipment portfolio to address the changing needs of modern construction and equipment rental operations.

 

To learn more about the latest news and developments from JLG, visit JLG.com/en/press-releases.  
Randi McClure
Randi McClure
Senior Manager, Product Marketing

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