The rise of electric lift trucks
Electric forklifts have been around for decades, but they have gained more traction in recent years due to several factors:
· Sustainability and eco-friendliness: Electric forklifts have no tailpipe emissions, which helps reduce greenhouse gases and air pollution. They are also energy efficient and operate quietly, which may enhance the comfort and safety of operators, workers, and others in the vicinity.
· Performance and uptime: When matched with the right application, electric lift trucks may have lower maintenance costs, a longer service life, higher efficiency, better performance, and more flexibility. They do not need oil changes, spark plugs, filters, or belts and have fewer moving parts resulting in less wear and tear and associated maintenance. They can also work both indoors and outdoors. All of this results in a lower Total Cost of Ownership (TCO).
· Market demand and regulations: The European electric forklift market is expected to grow 13% annually from 2022 to 2030. This is due to the increasing demand from various industries and the stricter regulations from governments to reduce Greenhouse Gas emissions from ICE equipment.
Advantages of lithium-ion batteries in electric forklift trucks
Lithium-ion batteries specifically may offer several advantages over other types of batteries, such as lead-acid or nickel-cadmium batteries.
For example, lithium-ion batteries can store more energy in a smaller space and lose less charge when not in use. The Hyster J2.5-3.0XNL is powered by an integrated high-voltage lithium-ion battery that can provide up to 8 hours of continuous operation in demanding applications and can be fully charged from flat within 2 hours. Moreover, the battery can be opportunity charged during breaks or downtime, which can extend the operating range and eliminate the need for battery exchange.
Unlike lead-acid batteries, lithium-ion batteries also do not need any watering, equalising, or cleaning, which can help save time and money on maintenance. They may also have a longer service life, which can reduce the replacement costs of the batteries.
The Hyster J2.5-3.0XNL electric lift truck weighs just over 300 kg less than the equivalent lead-acid powered model. This overall reduction in truck weight also improves acceleration and reduces energy consumption for long run times in demanding applications, which may provide a higher return on investment over other electric trucks.
Lithium-ion batteries also do not have any toxic or hazardous materials, do not emit any harmful gasses, and may be recycled more easily. This can make lithium-ion forklifts a good choice for tough applications that are also striving to meet sustainability goals.
Addressing Common Concerns about Electric Lift Trucks
Despite the many benefits of electric forklift trucks and lithium-ion technology, some businesses may still have some concerns or misconceptions about them.
For instance, some businesses may think that all electric forklift trucks require a complex and costly charging infrastructure and battery exchange system. However, this is not the case with the Hyster J2.5-3.0XNL series, as these trucks have an integrated lithium-ion battery that does not require any battery exchange rooms, stations or handling equipment. A simple plug-and-play connection from a suitable charger to the battery connector on the side of the truck will allow for quick and easy charging. With the release of no emissions whilst charging, the charger can be installed anywhere on site, with no need for ventilation.
Some businesses may be reluctant to move away from familiarity of ICE forklifts, unaware of the potential benefits of electric forklift trucks, such as lower operating costs, higher efficiency, better performance, and more sustainability. There is sometimes also a misconception that electric lift trucks are not ‘tough enough’.
However, the Hyster J2.5-3.0XNL electric series can offer ICE-like performance combined with low energy consumption. These trucks can handle heavy loads, steep ramps, uneven surfaces, tight spaces, and various attachments with ease. They can also operate both indoors and outdoors, which can increase their versatility for different industrial applications.
Learn more about lithium-ion forklifts
Speak to your local Hyster dealer today to learn more about Hyster lithium-ion electric lift trucks and how they can help tough applications.
