What options are available for controlling the lift?
You can choose from a range of control elements to operate the tail lift. From the classic control box to a pushbutton plate at the rear of the vehicle or interior controls, right through to modern radio remote control – each control option has its own specific advantages for different workflows and applications.
At BÄR, a range of control devices and instruments are available to you. These range from control units for complex functions to simple switches or push-buttons with varying functionality. Below, BÄR presents a brief overview of its control elements, followed by the options for switching the lift on and off.
Simply click on one of the images below to find out more about this control element. Or scroll down.
Are you unsure which tail lift control system is right for you? Generally speaking, you can choose between
Fixed controls for a defined operating position
If you wish to ensure that the operator always has a clear view of what is happening at the rear of the vehicle from a specific location, permanently installed control components are the ideal solution. Control units, in the sense of control boxes, determine where the user is positioned during operation. Depending on the vehicle design, location of use and operator habits, push-button panels recessed into the exterior body panel may be the more ergonomically sensible option. Furthermore, mounted control elements have the advantage that they cannot be forgotten, left behind or stolen – at least not easily.
Quick access by clicking on the image – or simply scroll down!
Bär Control EVO control box
As the serail control unit for Bär Cargolifts with a load capacity of 1,000 kg and above, Bär Control EVO combines a shock-resistant aluminum housing with two cross-lever switches – designed for tough everyday use in transport logistics.
The control unit is mounted via a bracket directly on the lift – on the main beam, underrun protection or guide rail – or alternatively on the vehicle body. Depending on the operating mode and vehicle configuration, it can be mounted on the right or left in the direction of travel; an additional unit on the left-hand side complements the main control unit if required.
General operating logic of the Bär Control EVO
Bär Control EVO operates on the principle of two-hand control: the Cargolift only performs a movement as long as the operator actively holds down both cross-lever switches. If they release one lever, the platform stops immediately. This so-called deadman’s switch ensures that the operator retains full control at all times and that no uncontrolled movements of the platform can occur.
The direction in which the levers are moved corresponds to the direction of movement of the platform:
If both levers are moved downwards, it lowers.
If both levers are pushed upwards, the platform lifts.
To tilt the platform downwards, the lever movement is exactly the opposite: left lever down and right lever up. This is not necessary for tilting up or down whilst on the ground. More information ».
If the opened, unloaded platform is to be tilted upwards, with the control unit mounted on the right, move the left lever upwards (corresponding to the direction of movement of the platform tip) and the right lever downwards.
This direct transfer of hand movement to platform movement makes operation intuitive to learn and reduces operating errors in day-to-day work. This lifting procedure is identical for all Cargolifts. Please note that only the unloaded unloaded platform may be tilted - exception: Tilting on the ground!
In addition to the basic functions, Bär Control EVO can also perform additional functions across all lifts:
» Switching on and off via SwitchKey
Switching on and off is included as standard on Cargolifts designed for towed units – i.e. trailers or semi-trailers. SwitchKey is available as an option for all other lifts with Bär Control EVO. Demonstration video on YouTube
If Bär Control EVO has a sticker with this symbol, SwitchKey is active: the lift can be switched on by moving the left control lever. To switch on the lift by default, move the left lever as follows:
- To the vehicle
- To the vehicle
- Towards the driver
To switch off the lift, press the left control lever down for two seconds. The lift is now switched off.
» Further additional functions
With the introduction of the Bär Control EVO in 2016, the new control unit gained additional functions:
Save the platform’s tilt-end angle
By pressing the right control lever upwards three times. The lift saves the currently set position of the platform.
Switch off the flashing lights
By pressing the right control lever down three times. The flashing lights will come back on when the lever is operated again.
Operating logic of the Bär Control EVO by product group
You are already familiar with the general operating logic and functions, which are identical across all Bär Cargolifts. But how does the platform move into the working position? That is exactly what we will look at below.
In most cases, Bär Control EVO is mounted on the right-hand side in the direction of travel – the typical standing position of the operator during loading and unloading. Please note that an additional unit on the left or the control unit mounted on the left-hand side in the direction of travel results in the lever movements being reversed.
Below you will find information on the product group-specific use of Bär Control EVO – in more detail for right-hand mounting (pictograms on the right-hand side), and in a more concise form for left-hand mounting (image placed on the left). Clicking on the image or the caption will take you to the relevant product group:
The blue arrow takes you to the top of the page, where you can select a different control element. Clicking on the image or the caption in the yellow bar takes you to the Bär Control EVO for the relevant product group. Alternatively, you can simply scroll down.
» BC Standard tail lift with control unit mounted on the right-hand side in the direction of travel
Bär Control EVO is the standard control unit for robust Standard tail lifts with a load capacity of 1,000 kg or more. For light-duty tail lifts with a load capacity of 750 kg or 1,000 kg, it can replace the serial control box (see below) as an optional extra.
Typically, this product group, which also includes the vertically folded FreeAccess platforms, has the platform positioned behind the bodywork in driving position. There are two ways to move the platform into working position:
1. 1. Open by pressing the left lever down and the right lever up.
2. QuickShift: To open and lower simultaneously, press both control levers down whilst the platform is closed.
If the Standard Cargolift is equipped with SoftLock, the platform automatically slides out from under the load-securing rail using the above-mentioned control commands.
The Standard Cargolift can now be used for loading and unloading.
After using the lift, the open platform is lifted until it is mechanically stopped. To then close the platform, the left control lever is pushed up and the right lever down at the same time – also until the platform is mechanically stopped, i.e. until it comes to rest against the rear portal of the vehicle.
If the Standard Cargolift is equipped with SoftLock, the platform automatically slides under the load securing rail when the above-mentioned control command is given.
In the case of BC S4U / S4T with hydraulic underrun bar, the underrun protection must be positioned at the bottom when the lorry is driving without a low-coupled trailer. To do this, the operator pushes the right-hand control lever towards them. If the low coupling is to be used, the underrun protection can be moved upwards by pushing the right-hand control lever towards the vehicle.
» Bär Control EVO mounted on the left-hand side in the direction of travel
If Bär Control EVO is mounted on the left-hand side in the direction of drive, the lever movements for opening and closing are reversed:
To open, move the left lever upwards and the right lever downwards.
To close the platform, move the left lever downwards and the right lever upwards.
» Retractable RetFalt Cargolifts with control box mounted on the right-hand side
Retractable tailgates with a single-fold platform – BÄR calls this lift version RetFalt – are fitted with a Bär Control EVO as standard.
One time folded, sliding RetFalt platforms are positioned beneath the vehicle when in the driving position. To move into the working position, the folded platform is first extended hydraulically. To do this, the operator pulls both control levers horizontally towards them. The Cargolift then lowers first before extending.
The platform is then unfolded manually once.
If there is little space at the rear of the vehicle for the lift, if you cannot reach the load floor when raising the platform, or if the lift has the ‘Additional working position stop’ option, the unfolded platform must be retracted before use. To do this, both levers are pushed towards the vehicle. With this option, the lift stops automatically as soon as the working position is reached.
The RetFalt Cargolift can now be used for loading and unloading.
After using the lift, if the “Additional working position stop” option is selected, the platform is fully extended by the operator pulling both levers towards themselves.
The platform is then folded in manually once.
The folded platform is hydraulically retracted back under the vehicle. To do this, both control levers are pushed towards the vehicle. There are now several options:
- Lifts manufactured from 2026 onwards execute SmartSlide and end in the driving position.
- Lifts manufactured between 2024 and 2026 adjust the platform height and angle and retract under the vehicle until they reach the mechanical stop. The platform must then be lifted.
- Lifts manufactured before 2024 or lifts in emergency mode only retract the platform. The operator must pay attention to the retraction height and angle. Next:
To move to the driving position, the folded platform must be lifted by pressing both control levers upwards.
» Bär Control EVO mounted on the left-hand side in the direction of travel
If the control unit is mounted on the left-hand side in the direction of travel, the adjustment of the platform inclination when the platform is lifted changes significantly:
To tilt the platform upwards, move the right lever upwards and the left lever downwards.
To tilt the platform downwards, move the left lever upwards and the right lever downwards.
» Slider R42 Cargolifts with control unit mounted on the right-hand side
Retractable Cargolifts with a manually double-folded platform (R42) are equipped with Bär Control EVO as standard.
Folded away under the vehicle, the platform package is first extended by the operator pulling both levers towards them.
Once the platform package is fully extended, it is lowered hydraulically. To do this, both levers are pushed down.
The lowered platform package can then be manually unfolded in two steps.
The R42 Cargolift can now be used for loading and unloading.
To return to the driving position, first fold in the tip of the platform, then the platform package by hand.
The folded platform is then swung upwards using the lift function, i.e. by pushing both control levers upwards.
This is followed by the ‘Retract’ function: when both control levers are pushed towards the vehicle, the platform assembly moves horizontally under the vehicle and then automatically lifts into the driving position.
» Bär Control EVO mounted on the left-hand side in the direction of travel
If the control box is mounted on the left, the tilt setting changes when the platform is lifted and unloaded:
Pulling the left lever up and pushing the right lever down tilts the platform downwards.
Pushing the left lever down and pulling the right lever up tilts the platform upwards.
» Slider H42 Cargolifts with control unit mounted on the right-hand side in the direction of travel
Hydraulically double-folded, sliding H42 Cargolifts are fitted with Bär Control EVO as standard. If the EasyFold automatic function is active on the lift, this is indicated by a corresponding sticker.
The standard operation of the HydFalt lift with Bär Control EVO on the right-hand side in the direction of travel – as well as the emergency operation – is as follows:
To exit the driving position, the operator pulls both control levers towards them until the lift stops. The platform assembly lowers first before extending.
To fold the platform package, the left lever is pushed towards the operator and the right lever towards the vehicle.
The platform tip is then unfolded by pushing the left lever towards the vehicle and the right lever towards the operator.
If the total length of the platform is only 1,560 mm, the platform tip must be unfolded manually.
The unfolded platform is then retracted hydraulically. To do this, both control levers are moved towards the vehicle simultaneously.
If the H42 Cargolift is equipped with EasyFold, the operator pushes the left lever towards themselves and the right lever downwards whilst in the driving position. As long as the operator holds this command,
- the platform package lowers from the driving position,
- then extends,
- unfolds the platform package,
- then the tip of the platform,
- before retracting to the first stop.
The H42 Cargolift can now be used for loading and unloading.
In standard mode or emergency mode the HydFalt Lift can be returned to the driving position as follows
- First adjust the height by lifting or lowering (see above).
- Then the lift is fully extended by pulling both levers towards the operator.
First, fold in the platform tip by pushing the left lever towards the vehicle and the right lever towards the operator.
If this does not work, then:
- Check and adjust the height of the extended platform.
- Check whether the platform is fully extended and correct this if necessary.
- Adjust the platform tilting angle as a test.
To fold the platform package, press the left lever towards the operator and the right lever towards the vehicle until the platform stops moving.
Once the platform is fully folded in, it moves into the driving position by pressing both control levers towards the vehicle. The platform package is retracted under the vehicle and then lifted.
If EasyFold is available: Hold the left lever towards the vehicle and the right lever pressed down so that
- The lift moves automatically into the folding position, i.e. it automatically adjusts the height of the platform, then extends fully and, if necessary, adjusts the platform angle.
- There, the tip of the platform is first folded in,
- then the platform package is folded,
- which is then pulled under the vehicle and
- lifted beneath the vehicle.
» Bär Control EVO mounted on the left-hand side in the direction of travel
If the control unit is mounted on the left, operation is as described above, with the exception of the tilt adjustment when the platform is lifted and unloaded:
If the left lever is moved up and the right lever down, the platform tilts downwards.
If the left lever is moved downwards and the right lever upwards, the platform tilts upwards.
» Tuck-away Cargolifts with control unit mounted on the right-hand side in the direction of travel
Tuck-away Falt Cargolifts come with a Bär Control EVO as the main control unit as standard.
Folded under the vehicle, the platform package is first lowered by pressing both control levers down.
The platform is then unfolded manually in two steps.
The Falt Cargolift can now be used for loading and unloading.
A special feature here is that, in the case of the F4 Cargolifts only, the platform can be tilted at any height level. This is indicated by a sticker on the Bär Control EVO.
At ground level, all Falt Lifts tilt automatically up and down by the lifting and lowering function.
After loading/unloading, the platform is folded back up manually in two steps.
The platform package is then lifted under the vehicle: to do this, press both control levers upwards.
» Bär Control EVO mounted on the left-hand side in the direction of travel
If the Bär Control EVO is mounted on the left, the operation changes only for F4 products: You can tilt the raised, unloaded platform upwards by moving the left lever downwards and the right lever upwards. Moving the left lever upwards and the right lever downwards tilts it downwards.
» Other vehicle components – specifically: hydraulic jack legs
Bär Control EVO not only covers the complete control of the Cargolifts, but can also control other vehicle components such as hydraulic supports or jack legs – making Bär Control EVO the central interface between the driver and the vehicle’s technology.
Hydraulic jack legs are stabilising devices that are mounted on the vehicle chassis. They are used on vehicles with a long rear overhang or on centre-axle trailers. The hydraulic supports can be operated via the Bär Control EVO control unit.
If the jack leg control is implemented using the existing control unit, there are various operating logics. Below you can see the sticker attached to the control unit. Clicking on the image will take you to the instructional video on YouTube.
If the jack legs are to be controlled individually:
- The leg is lifted and lowered by moving the left lever horizontally.
- The vertical movement of the right-hand lever determines which leg moves.
For centrally controlled jack legs:
- Both legs lower when the left lever is pushed towards the operator.
- Both move back up when the left lever is moved towards the vehicle.
With automatic jack leg control, the legs move depending on the platform’s opening angle. As soon as this reaches 25°, the legs move downwards. Alternatively, centrally controlled support operation is possible in this case.
In the case of centre-axle trailers, additional control units are often used. Here too, clicking on the image takes you to the demonstration video on YouTube:
Are you looking for a combination of a tail lift with hydraulic jack legs? Or a support with a swing foot? Your Bär Cargolift contact will be happy to assist you.
Control box
The control box is the standard control unit for Standard / FreeAccess Cargolifts with a load capacity of 750 kg or 1,000 kg (often with two cylinders). Thanks to its compact dimensions, it fits easily into light vehicles with a gross vehicle weight of up to 8.6 tonnes.
As the main control unit, the control box is mounted on the vehicle body using a bracket. It can be fitted on the right or left side in the direction of travel, and an additional control box can also be fitted on the left.
Control logic of the control box
Just like the Bär Control EVO control unit, the control box is a two-hand control system. If the operator presses both levers in the basic functions, the lift moves. As soon as this is no longer the case, the platform movement stops. The control box uses the same logic as Bär Control EVO: to reduce operating errors, the lever movement corresponds to the platform movement.
With the control box mounted on the right, this means:
To close or tilt the platform upwards, press the left lever upwards and the right lever downwards. Please note: The platform may only be tilted when unloaded. On the ground it tilts automatically up and down.
To open the platform, press the left lever down and the right lever up. The same control command can also be used to tilt the lifted, unloaded platform downwards.
If both levers are pushed upwards, the platform rises. If operation is initiated from the ground, this command causes the platform to tilt upwards automatically before the lifting process begins.
If both levers are moved downwards, the platform lowers. If it is in the driving position (i.e. standing vertically behind the body), this command triggers QuickShift, the combination of automatic opening and lowering of the platform.
In addition to these basic functions, the following functions are available via the control box – clicking on the image takes you to the demonstration video on YouTube:
Save platform angle
To save the platform’s angle of inclination, simply move the right-hand lever upwards three times when the platform is in the desired position.
Switch off hazard warning lights
If, for example, you wish to switch off the flashing lights on the ramp, move the right-hand lever downwards three times. As soon as you operate it again, the flashing lights will restart flashing.
Push-button plate 3+1
As an alternative to control boxes, BÄR offers push-button panels. The most common option for operating the basic functions is the 3+1 push-button plate. It can be ordered as an alternative to the control box or as a supplement to it – on the right or left side in the direction of travel. It is available for Cargolifts in the Standard, FreeAccess and Falt product groups.
In most cases, the push-button panel is integrated into the outer wall of the bodywork. Alternatively, it can be mounted on the vehicle body using a bracket.
This control system is widely used in Scandinavia, with the three-button panel often mounted higher up on the wall and the single button positioned a considerable distance below it.
Operating logic of push-button plate 3+1
The control unit has two components: a push-button panel with three buttons that serve as function buttons, and a panel with a single button acting as an enable or safety button. The function is only executed whilst the operator presses and holds down the buttons. If a button is released, the platform stops.
BÄR offers this control element in two operating variants. You can see which variant is active in the Bär CargoCheck diagnostic software. The buttons to be pressed are the same, regardless of whether the push-button panel is mounted on the right or left in the direction of travel.
Bär control logic
- To open the platform, press the middle button on the three-button control panel.
- To lower the platform, press the lower function button.
- To lift the platform, press the top function button in combination with the single release button.
- To close the platform, press the middle function button and the release button.
Nordic control logic
- To open the platform, press the two lower function buttons together with the release button.
- To lower the platform, press the lower function button.
- To lift the platform, press the top function button.
- To close the platform, press the top two function buttons together with the release button.
There is a variant of the 3 + 1 button panel – clicking on the image here also takes you to the demonstration video on YouTube:
Push-button plate 3 + 2 with SwitchKey
This control panel consists of a panel with three buttons and a panel with two buttons. It allows standard Standard and Falt Cargolifts to be switched on and off via a control sequence (SwitchKey).
The control logic implements the functions by pressing and holding two buttons:
- Open – press both buttons on the two-button panel
- Lower – press the bottom button on the three-button panel and the top button on the two-button panel
- Lift – press the middle button on the three-button panel and the top button on the two-button panel
- Close – press the top button on the three-button panel and the top button on the two-button panel
Pushbutton plate with 2 functions
The two-function button panel is available for all Bär Cargolifts as a control unit mounted in the vehicle body wall. It enables different functions:
In most cases, the pushbutton plate is integrated into the interior wall of the vehicle body, from where the platform is lifted by pressing the yellow button. Pressing the blue button lowers the platform.
Demonstration video on YouTube
Alternatively, it is also possible to control the BC S4U hydraulic underrun protection using the control panel: the yellow button raises the underrun bar (enabling the use of the deep coupling), whilst the blue button lowers it (when the deep coupling is not in use).
For RetFalt sliding products, this control panel can be used to extend and retract the platform package. The blue button extends the lift, whilst the yellow button retracts it. Underneath the vehicle, the folded platform assembly can be lifted by pressing both buttons.
Foot control
As standard equipment in German-speaking countries, all Bär Cargolifts with a load capacity of 750 kg or more feature a foot control on the platform surface near the vehicle body. This allows the lift to be operated in the working position, with the operator standing in a safe position to the right or left of the direction of travel.
Operation is extremely simple:
- If the operator’s heel presses H first, then S, the platform rises.
- To lower it, they press S first, then H.
- As soon as either button is released, the platform stops moving.
As an alternative to the foot control with a metal housing and rubber push-buttons, the blue foot control is available. Operation is identical.
Bär SmartControl CabControl
In the case of cab control, the docking station for the Bär SmartControl Plus radio control is permanently installed in the cab. If the radio remote control is in the docking station and is paired with two reversing cameras and a split-screen monitor, the operator can control their Standard Cargolift from the cab.
Further details are available on this website »
Instructions for operating the Bär SmartControl Plus radio control system are provided below.
Controls offering greater freedom of movement when operating the tail lift
If the operator is to be able to choose their operating position freely when using the tail lift, BÄR offers solutions with varying degrees of freedom and functionality: cable controls limit the range of movement due to the cable connection. In contrast, radio controls allow for unprecedented freedom and, where applicable, offer additional functions.
What all these control elements have in common is that they do not have a fixed operating position where the operator must stand on the platform whilst controlling the tail lift. For this reason, the European tail lift standard DIN EN 1756-1 requires a “designated operating position” on the platform surface. When ordering a Bär Cargolift with radio or cable control, this marking is automatically applied to the platform.
Quick access by clicking on the image takes you to the relevant control element – or simply scroll down!
Bär SmartControl Basic radio control
The Bär SmartControl Basic radio control features three function buttons and a stop button. Proximity detection ensures that the operator always has a clear view of what is happening at the rear of the vehicle in hazardous situations. In addition, the automatic stop at 45° during platform closure alerts the operator to potential crush and shear points.
The Bär SmartControl Basic radio control is the standard control unit for Bär VanLifts. It is available as an optional extra for all other Cargolifts.
Operation of the Bär SmartControl Basic radio control
Operation is carried out by simply clicking and holding the relevant button or button combination. If a button is released, i.e. no longer pressed, the function stops.
For certain functions, the handheld transmitter must be within the close-up area. This refers to the distance between the handheld transmitter and the receiver. The receiver is usually mounted in or on the main beam, power unit housing or on the control unit. Consequently, the operator must be close to the lift when switching it on and to fully close the platform.
Bär SmartControl Basic enables the operation of basic functions; with this handheld transmitter, tuck-away and retractable Cargolifts can essentially lift and lower the platform, as well as adjust its tilt. A more detailed description of the functionality for VanLifts and Standard Cargolifts is provided below.
Operating Bär VanLifts and Standard Cargolifts with Bär SmartControl Basic
The main control element for Bär VanLifts is the simple radio remote control Bär SmartControl Basic.
Demonstration video on YouTube »
For other Standard tail lifts, the Basic handheld transmitter is available as an option.
Demonstration video on YouTube »
Switching on
Press a yellow button on the handheld transmitter within close proximity to the lift. Operation is possible as soon as the reception LED lights up.
Move the platform into the working position
By pressing the Tilt and Lower buttons simultaneously.
In case of the vertically folded FreeAccess platform: unfold the platform.
In case of VanLifts: unfold VanBridge.
Lower platform
By pressing the lower button. Once at the ground, the platform tilts automatically.
Lift platform
Press the lift button.
For VanLifts, fold away the VanBridge after loading/unloading.
In the case of the FreeAccess platform, fold it back by hand.
Move platform into driving position
For Standard Cargolifts and VanLifts manufactured up to 2025, the platform is lifted to the mechanical stop by pressing the lift button.
It is then closed by pressing the Tilt and Lift buttons simultaneously – interrupted by the automatic stop at 45°. Pressing the Tilt and Lift buttons again in the close-up area. Here you can fully close to the driving position.
On New VanLifts (from 2025 onwards), QuickClose starts automatically when the Tilt and Lift buttons are pressed simultaneously: if not lifted sufficiently, the platform closes to 20°; the lift then moves upwards first and closes completely.
Switching off
Simply press the Stop button until the reception LED goes out.
Bär SmartControl Plus radio remote control
The Bär SmartControl Plus radio remote control has eight function buttons and a stop button. These can be used to operate all functions of the Cargolift, as well as other (vehicle) components.
Just like the Basic handheld transmitter, the Plus handheld transmitter features:
- Proximity detection for critical situations
- AutoStop 45° when closing the platform
In addition to the Basic version, the Plus radio remote control features:
- Vehicle icons to activate the lift by double-clicking on the truck or trailer
- A 4-function button to activate the platform closing function or, in the case of RetFalt slider products, to activate retraction and extension
- RadioKey, which locks all controls as soon as the operator is outside the working area
- F button for controlling hydraulic jack legs, the BC S4U hydraulic underrun protection or a customer function such as the EasyFold automatic function sequence for HydFalt.
In addition to the battery-powered handheld transmitter, a rechargeable version with a docking station is available. Further information can be found on the dedicated webpage. The rechargeable handheld transmitter forms the basis for the cab control system.
The Bär SmartControl Plus radio remote control is available as an optional extra for all Bär Cargolifts.
Operating Bär Cargolifts with Bär SmartControl Plus
Just like the Basic version, the Plus handheld transmitter is operated largely by simply clicking and holding the relevant button or button combination. When a button is released, i.e. no longer pressed, the function stops.
The exceptions to the single-click-and-hold rule are:
- The vehicle symbols are pressed twice (double-clicked) to switch on and pressed once to switch off.
- The 4-function button is pressed briefly or for longer, depending on the lift type.
- The F button is used differently depending on the lift type.
If ‘2x’ is marked under the vehicle symbols on your radio remote control, you have an older version of Bär SmartControl. With these remote controls, operation is largely realized out via double-click and hold.
Operation is the same for all Bär Cargolifts:
Log in and out using the vehicle icon within close proximity
Double-clicking on the lorry or trailer icon activates the lift within the immediate vicinity (approximately three metres around the lift).
Trucks, transpoters and panel vans are activated via the lorry icon; towed units such as trailers and semi-trailers via the trailer icon. Activation is indicated by an illuminated LED on the vehicle icon in the display at the top of the handheld transmitter.
To switch off, simply press and hold the vehicle button until the LEDs go out.
RadioKey when leaving the working area
If the remote control leaves the operating range (approximately twelve metres around the lift), RadioKey automatically locks all controls. Once the remote control is back within the operating range, operation is possible again. To do this, press a yellow button.
Lift platform
Press the lift button.
At ground level, the platform tilts automatically.
Lower platform
Press the lower button.
When on the ground, the platform automatically tilts down.
Tilting up and down with the platform open
If the tilt of the open, unloaded platform needs to be adjusted, tilting is first activated using the four-function button and then carried out within a limited range of movement using the close button (tilt up) or the open button (tilt down).
However, the way in which the respective lift moves into the working and driving positions varies. This is therefore described below by product group.
If you are interested in a specific product group, click on the image or the caption. Use the arrow to return to the top of the page, where you can select a different control element.
» Cargolifts with a Standard / FreeAccess platform positioned behind the vehicle
Operating video on YouTube of the Bär Cargolift Standard mounted on a truck
Operating video on YouTube for the Bär Cargolift Standard mounted on a Trailer
Moving into working position
In normal operation, the platform opens after logging in. To do this, press and hold the Open button.
Alternatively, QuickShift is available: if the Lower button is pressed whilst the platform is closed and in a vertical position, the platform opens and lowers automatically to a horizontal position and then descends. A proximity sensor allows the platform to stop automatically at a defined height (for example, to drive the platform under the ramp by CabControl).
The lift can now be used for loading and unloading.
Moving to driving position
After loading and unloading, the platform is raised using the lift button until it reaches the mechanical stop at the vehicle body.
Then press the 4-function button once, followed by pressing and holding the close button. The platform stops automatically when the platform is 45° closed. After pressing and holding the close button again in close-up area, the platform closes completely.
For VanLifts manufactured from 2025 onwards the operator presses the 4-function button once, then ‘Close’, and QuickClose is activated: the platform tilts up to 20°; if the lifting mechanism is not lifted sufficiently, the lift automatically corrects this before closing completely.
» Tuck-away Cargolifts (Falt)
Moving into working position
Press the lower button, then unfold the platform manually in two steps.
The lift can now be used for loading and unloading.
Moving to driving position
First, fold the platform in two steps. Then use the lift button to lift the platform package under the vehicle to driving position.
Please note: If the lifted, unloaded platform is to be tilted, this is only possible with the F4 version of the Falt Cargolift.
» Retractable RetFalt Cargolifts with manually folded platform
Operating video on YouTube showing the Bär Cargolift RetFalt mounted on a lorry
Operating video on YouTube showing the Bär Cargolift RetFalt mounted on a trailer
Move platform into working position
First, press the 4-function button once until an additional LED in the scale behind the vehicle symbol flashes. Then press and hold the open button until the platform stops extending. Finally, unfold the platform by hand.
This also allows the RetFalt Lift to be extended further if the lift has an additional working position.
The lift can now be used for loading and unloading.
Move platform to driving position
Fold the platform in by hand. Press the 4-function button until an additional LED in the display behind the vehicle symbol flashes. For lifts manufactured from around 2026 onwards, SmartSlide will move to the driving position.
This also allows the RetFalt Lift to be retracted if the lift has an additional working position.
In the case of RetFalt Cargolifts without SmartSlide, this command retracts the folded platform until it stops automatically beneath the vehicle. The operator must ensure that the platform moves horizontally beneath the vehicle at the correct height and does not collide. Once beneath the vehicle, the platform is lifted by pressing the lift button.
» Retractable HydFalt Cargolifts with hydraulically folding platform
Demonstration video on YouTube showing the Bär Cargolift HydFalt mounted on a lorry
Move platform into working position
To extend and unfold the platform using the EasyFold function, first press the F button once. The LED scale will light up at F and the person symbol. Then press and hold the Open button until the platform has extended, unfolded and then retracted to the first stop.
The lift can now be used for loading and unloading.
Moving platform to travel position
Start by pressing the F button once. The LED scale indicates that the customer function EasyFold is active.Then press and hold the Close button until the lift is in the travel position.
» Control other Cargolift or vehicle components with Bär SmartControl Plus
The F button is used to operate other Cargolift or vehicle components with Bär SmartControl Plus. You can switch between components by pressing this button repeatedly. This requires that the Cargolift software supports the desired functions. If this is the case, the Plus handheld transmitter can control hydraulic jack legs – individually or centrally operated – as well as the hydraulic underrun protection from BC S4U or a function set up for you as a customer program. Discuss your requirements with your contact at BÄR »
Cable remote controls
As the name suggests, the cable control has a cable connection to the lift or vehicle. This limits the range of movement during operation. BÄR offers two different variants:
Cable control with two functions (two buttons)
The two-button version of the cable remote control allows only two functions: lifting and lowering.
Cable control with four functions (three buttons)
In the three-button version, the cable control can usually tilt the lifted, unloaded platform slightly.
The cable connection can be implemented in various ways and is possible at different positions:
- Via a socket
Either via a bracket attached to the control elements on the outside of the vehicle (positions 1 and 2 in the image) or within the vehicle body (position 3 in the image). In any case, the cable control must be unplugged and stowed inside the vehicle before departure. Otherwise, there is a risk of water ingress, which can lead to malfunctions. - Via a direct connection to the eBC Controller (position 4 in the image)
Usually for integration into the vehicle body (position 3 in the image). - Via SuperSeal interface
In the vehicle body (position 3 in the image), the cable control unit is connected to the eBC Controller (position 4 in the image) via SuperSeal connectors.
Special case: VanLift
All Bär VanLifts have a plug connection on the lifting mechanism as standard. If the radio control no longer works or has been lost, the cable control with three buttons serves as an emergency control.
Switching the lift on and off
The lift must be switched on before use and switched off again after use.
Cabin control switch
The cabin control switch meets the requirements of the European tail-lift standard EN 1756-1: The switch protects against unauthorised operation and provides a feedback signal if the lift is not in the driving position after being switched off.
The image shows the Bär cabin control switch. Alternatively, many vehicles can be ordered with a tail-lift preparation. In this case, you will receive a pre-installed push-button in the vehicle’s cockpit design, including the necessary cabling.
SwitchKey
BÄR defines SwitchKey as the process of switching the lift on and off using the existing control element – more specifically, via a defined sequence of operations. In the case of the Bär Control EVO control unit, the left-hand control lever can be equipped with SwitchKey.
SwitchKey is standard equipment on Cargolifts designed for trailers or semi-trailers. It can be ordered as an option for all other Cargolifts.
To log in, the operator performs a defined sequence of operations using the left control lever at Bär Control EVO. This can be customised via the Bär CargoCheck diagnostic software. The default setting is: Towards the vehicle, towards the vehicle, towards the driver.
To switch off, the left lever is pressed down for approximately two seconds. Clicking on the image takes you to the demonstration video on YouTube.
Key switch
As an alternative to the SwitchKey, an electric key switch is available as an option. If you have the correct ‘key’, you can use it to switch the lift on and off.
Bär SmartControl radio controls
With the Bär SmartControl radio remote controls – whether Basic or Plus transmitters – you can normally switch the Cargolift on and off. If you do not wish to do this, please inform BÄR when placing your order. It is also possible to use one of the on/off options mentioned above. Then the “switching on” described above simply involves registering the handheld transmitter with the lift.
Emergency operation
Should all control elements fail, the lift can also be switched on via the eBC Controller electronic control unit and operated using buttons on the control panel.
For more details, please see the first aid page in case of emergency »
Please contact BÄR if you wish to protect this method of switching on from unauthorised operation.
Conclusion: Control elements as the key to efficient operation
Control elements and operating functions can significantly influence efficiency and safety in the demanding day-to-day transport environment. This makes it all the more important to select control elements that are suited to the transport process and the personnel involved.
In this article, you have learnt about key control elements; in the previous article, you learnt about the corresponding operating functions. Alternatively, your contacts at BÄR » will be happy to assist you.
Wondering how to operate your Bär Cargolift? Best to ask HowToCargoLift »
Or are you wondering what’s next in the tail-lift encyclopaedia? There’s even more equipment to explore…
