We often get asked whether tracks or wheels are better for EWPs.

The truth is, it depends on the terrain and the job.

Tracks can work well on smooth slopes, soft ground or areas where low ground pressure is needed. They spread the weight of the machine over a larger contact area, which can be useful in the right conditions.

But rough outdoor terrain is rarely smooth.

At Elevado, we have designed, built and tested both tracked and wheeled drive systems. Through that testing, we have found that for the type of terrain our machines are built for, wheels are usually the better option.

Our focus is elevated access on rough outdoor ground. That includes worksites, farms, orchards, civil sites and other areas where the ground often has ruts, holes, gutters, mounds, washouts and sharp changes in level.

In these conditions, tracks can create a “catapult” effect. As the track drops over a step, rut or edge, the machine can pitch forward or shift suddenly. That jolt travels through the boom and becomes much more pronounced at the platform, creating a sudden bounce or whip effect for the operator.

A wheeled machine with proper axle movement and self-levelling can keep better contact with uneven ground. Each wheel can follow the terrain more independently, helping the machine stay controlled as it travels across changing ground.

When paired with Elevado’s self-levelling system, the machine can adjust to slopes and uneven surfaces while working. This helps keep the chassis stable and the platform level, even when the terrain is changing underneath the machine.

For smooth slopes or very soft ground, tracks may still be the right choice. But for rough, uneven and unpredictable outdoor terrain, a well-designed wheeled EWP can offer better control, smoother travel and a more stable working platform.

Contact Us to learn more…