Lithium-ion Batteries Even the Score.

For years, the knocks on electric forklifts have been charging time, power, and maintenance. Now, with new lithium-ion battery technology, electric forklifts can easily compete with IC lifts. Here’s why: Unlike lead acid batteries that need to be swapped, charged, and frequently maintained or replaced, lithium-ion batteries are meant to stay with the truck and require minimal maintenance.

This provides more protection and stability, and zero noise and emissions. But the biggest impact is on your space. Because the batteries stay in the truck, you no longer need large battery storage areas on site, freeing up room.

More Power, Fast.

Today’s lithium-ion batteries and electric motors are powerful enough to match the productivity of internal combustion engines. But even the way lithium-ion batteries deliver power has improved. Now each battery delivers consistent power throughout the entire discharge cycle, so there is no compromise on performance during a shift. Additionally, lithium-ion batteries can recharge faster—back up to full charge in as quickly as fifteen minutes—and can be charged during breaks to keep operations productive.

All of this means you can lower your operating costs and downtime and increase the overall power of your fleet.

Electric Forklifts for Outdoors? Yes.

Because lithium-ion batteries are fully sealed and IP-rated, all vulnerable components are completely covered. This ensures electric forklifts are protected from dust, heat, or moisture, without compromising performance or safety. The term “IP (Ingress Protection) rating” refers to codes that indicate how well a device or component is protected against the ingress of water and dust. The higher the number after the IP, the better the protection against foreign bodies. Many critical components in electric trucks, such as the battery and control systems, often have an IP rating of IP54. This means that it is protected from dust and can withstand water from all directions, making them safe for outside use and operation.

Efficiency For the Long Term.

While electric forklifts may have a higher initial purchase cost, they can offer a lower total cost of ownership (TCO) over their lifetime via reduced operating and maintenance expenses. Electric drivetrains have fewer components and less complexity than internal combustion engines. Plus, lithium-ion batteries require no maintenance or equalization. Electric forklifts can also last longer than internal combustion lifts. On average, a first operator will use an IC lift for about 10,000-12,000 hours. Electric lifts can well surpass that mark.

Bottom Line

Electric forklift technology has advanced in recent years and is on par with or better than IC forklifts in most applications. Depending on your need or application, a switch to electric trucks will very likely improve productivity and lower your operation's annual spending on lift trucks.