Although transitioning a fleet of IC forklifts to electric can sound intimidating, the reality of re-energizing your fleet is simple. With substantial operational and environmental benefits, going electric could be the next big leap for your business. Let’s explore how and why transitioning to electric forklifts can revolutionize your operations.

Operational Efficiency and Simple Maintenance:

Electric forklifts are superior when it comes to emissions and noise. They release zero emissions during operation and make zero noise apart from their backup alarm. The combination of zero noise and emissions makes electric forklifts the optimal choice when operating indoors. Unlike traditional IC forklifts, electric forklifts are manufactured with fewer moving parts, meaning electric forklifts do not need oil, spark plugs, or transmission fluid. With fewer moving parts, there is less chance for things to go wrong, which results in less downtime and maintenance and increases runtime in your operations. Another added benefit to working with electric forklifts is the regenerative braking system. The forklifts are equipped with technology that improves the efficiency of braking by converting kinetic energy to electrical energy during deceleration. Electric forklifts with automatic braking also have a longer brake life than those without one. On top of the technical benefits, there is also an added human benefit. The automatic braking system reduces strain on its operators, which reduces operator stress and fatigue.

Streamlining Conversion with Strategic Partnerships:

Transitioning to electric forklifts is made easier with the support of energy partners who are leading the charge towards sustainable practices. Many utilities and energy companies are increasingly supporting the electrification of material handling equipment as part of their sustainability initiatives. This support often comes in the form of rebates, grants, and technical assistance to help businesses transition to electric forklifts and reduce their environmental footprint. Some examples include:

• Salt River Project (SRP): SRP in Arizona offers rebates for businesses switching to electric forklifts. They provide up to $2,000 per forklift for replacing an internal combustion-powered forklift with an electric one, and $500 for first-time purchases or additions to existing fleets. They also offer rebates for other electric-operated equipment like ride-on scrubbers, sweepers, and pallet jacks

• EnergyRight: In the Tennessee Valley Authority service area, the EnergyRight program offer a $1,000 incentive for the lease of new or refurbished Class 1 or Class 2 electric forklifts, and a $250 incentive per forklift for the lease of a Class 3 electric forklift, aimed at expanding fleets or replacing older Class 4 or Class 5 forklifts.

Long-Term Cost Savings

Using electric forklifts often proves to be more cost-effective over time for various reasons. The first and most obvious is the lack of fuel an electric forklift needs to operate. Not only is the cost of electricity lower than fuel, but it can be much more stable and less impacted by outside factors. So, instead of being subject to volatile gasoline prices, electric forklifts are 5-6x more efficient. This is a major advantage for industries as even the slightest savings can make a significant impact. By transitioning to an all-electric fleet, operators can run a cost-effective solution for their fleet and overall operations.

Curious to see how much you could save? Check out the UniCarriers Forklifts Cost Calculator on our website and calculate your potential savings today!

Conclusion

No two businesses are alike. Each business has its own unique set of concerns. However, one thing every business can get on board with is cost-efficiency and convenience. This is exactly what the transition to electric forklifts is offering to businesses across industries.

Thinking about transitioning to electric forklifts? Contact UniCarriers to find out how we can assist in re-energizing your fleet.