Rethink your Lift Truck power options with Hyster New Zealand

Industrial trucks depend on strong, reliable power to move ingredients for beverage bottling and food processing, cement for concrete operations and shipping containers at ports. These demanding, high-intensity applications have historically depended on internal combustion engines (ICEs), with their consistent power delivery and high performance – but with the expansion and advancement of new electrification options, the motive power landscape is shifting.
Hydrogen fuel cells and lithium-ion batteries in particular are gaining traction when it comes to both distribution centres and heavier-duty lift truck applications. Electrification is no longer a pipe dream, as these power sources are now available on more lift truck product classes and capacities than ever before, capable of delivering the long-lasting, high-performance intensive applications require. While traditional ICE or even lead acid batteries may still be the best-fit for some jobs, more applications are legitimate candidates for electrification than ever – helping operations overcome common challenges related to productivity, labour efficiency and more.
Rather than simply accepting the status quo of lift truck power, it might be time to rethink your power source.

This article explores four signs it’s time to make a change in your heavy-duty material handling operations 

1 - DEMANDING CONDITIONS CAN'T SLOW DOWN PRODUCTIVITY.

Extreme temperatures, environments and duty cycles can push equipment to the limit, resulting in wear and tear that can lead to a spike in equipment downtime and all kinds of productivity bottlenecks. To manage this risk,
operations can explore power sources that are proven to perform in the harshest environments.
ICE lift trucks have been, of course, the tried-and-true option for demanding outdoor applications. They offer remarkable durability and have a proven record of standing up to the hottest, dirtiest and coldest environments.
These trucks power through multiple shifts without depending on the electrical grid – an especially important consideration if local utilities cannot provide the electricity to keep electric fleets moving.
But electric trucks can handle tough temperatures, too. For example, lithium-ion batteries offer superior performance in hot and cold environments, helping lift trucks run reliably and consistently over multiple shifts, no matter the season. Hydrogen fuel cells provide consistent power delivery until full depletion and refuel in as quick as three minutes, meaning lift truck drivers
are able to spend more time being productive – not on complex charging and changing processes. 

2 - YOU STRUGGLE TO FIND AND RETAIN LABOUR.

Lift truck operators are in short supply. With competition so fierce for a limited pool of labour, good help is not only difficult to find – it’s hard to hang on to, with approximately 30% to over 45% turnover reported in manufacturing, warehousing and other logistics sectors in 2019. To keep lift truck operators engaged and performing at their best, ergonomics and comfort are key. Electric-powered lift trucks produce less noise than
those powered by ICE and transmit fewer vibrations to the operator, offering a smoother ride. They also do not emit harmful exhaust, improving air quality and creating a cleaner work environment.
Difficulty finding and retaining labour can sometimes forcE companies to hire operators who have little experience operating forklifts. In the case of working with traditional lead-acid batteries and LP tanks, lack of experience can potentially increase safety hazards with regard to battery handling and charging or LP tank changing.
Plus, unmotivated or unhappy operators may have poor charging habits, leading to shorter battery life over time. With a crew of less-experienced operators, it’s best to have forklifts that are very simple to operate and
maintain. Newer power sources typically require less maintenance and less charging time in a shift, so you can make the best use of the operators you have.

3 - YOU NEED TO CONTROL MAINTENANCE COSTS.

All forklifts have some level of planned and unplanned maintenance – whether on a weekly, monthly or quarterly basis. In fact, 80 percent of the total cost of a forklift comes after the initial capital investment, so it’s important to understand the maintenance requirements for each power source option.
ICE power means a whole host of powertrain items that require periodic service or replacement, including fluid, filters, spark plugs, belts or other items prone to wear.
Electric powertrains offer greater simplicity and fewer service items. Lead acid batteries do require some maintenance and additional processes to ensure they perform to their potential, including equalizing, watering and off gassing, but hydrogen fuel cells and lithium-ion batteries offer a simpler approach. Lithium-ion batteries do not require battery maintenance and can be plugged
in without any special pre- or post-charging steps, while refueling hydrogen fuel cells is a process much like refueling a passenger vehicle. In fact, hydrogen fuel cells can be refueled in as quick as three minutes, which means lift truck operators are able to spend more time being productive – not on complex charging and changing processes. 

4 - YOU ARE COMMITED TO SUSTAINABILITY.

Local regulations are putting pressure on industries to reduce environmental impact, while many businesses have their own green initiatives that seek
to reduce fossil fuel emissions. From manufacturing to large-scale construction projects and port operations, this shift puts emissions from industrial trucks in the bullseye of sustainability targets.
For managers charged with finding ways to meet those targets, reducing emissions from ICE-powered lift trucks can provide environmental benefit related to emissions.
Also, lead-acid batteries require off-gassing as part of the charging process and carry the risk of potential acid leak and corrosion – newer power options like lithium-ion batteries and hydrogen fuel cells do not come with these characteristics

POWERING POSSIBILITIES FOR ELECTRIFICATION - EVEN IN HEAVY-DUTY APPLICATIONS.

Lithium-ion batteries have evolved from powering small equipment like pallet trucks to now driving forklifts such as the New Hyster J2.0-3.0XTLG. These forklifts offer significant benefits over traditional internal combustion engines (ICE), with the J2.0-3.0XTLG offering up to 8 hours of continuous operation depending on the application, with the ability to recharge in approximately 2 hours. Additionally, lithium-ion powered lift trucks, like the J7.0-9.0XNL, offer increased lifting capacities in harsh conditions, reaching up to 9 tonnes.

Choosing Hyster forklifts means partnering with a brand that is committed to delivering world-class materials handling solutions and providing exceptional lifetime support. Whether you’re looking for reliable electric forklifts, heavy-duty machines, or tailored finance solutions, we’re here to help.

Get in touch with us today to learn more about how Hyster forklifts can support your business.
Together, we’ll find the perfect materials-handling solution for you!

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