The lithium-ion forklift: also ideal for you?

Forklift manufacturers are turning to electric propulsion with lithium-ion batteries. Technology leader Jungheinrich already offers 90% of its range with lithium-ion technology. The revolutionary technology is in many cases a good alternative to diesel and LPG forklifts. But does that also apply to you?

Electric drive was already the most economical choice for forklifts that are mainly used indoors. After all, electricity is cheaper than diesel or LPG. For farming, however, there were also disadvantages: a traditional lead-acid battery does not last a long farm day, charging takes (too) long and the battery must be carefully maintained.

These disadvantages are all removed by lithium-ion technology. A lithium-ion battery is completely maintenance-free, can be recharged indefinitely and in a few minutes and has a lifespan 3 times longer than an 'old' lead-acid battery. As a bonus, the user gets extra power and lower energy consumption.

(Text continues below the image)Lithium-ion battery cells have a chip and communicate with the forklift and the charger.

Much more robust than the 'old' batteries
Lithium-ion battery cells have a chip and communicate with both the battery charger and the forklift. This allows them to protect themselves against harmful use on the one hand and to adapt themselves optimally to the power required on the other.

A lithium-ion battery can be easily recharged during coffee and meal breaks, without causing damage to the battery. Because the charging process is much faster, the battery is 50% full in half an hour, making it possible to work almost continuously 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. The ease of use is even higher than with LPG and diesel forklifts. Carrying jerry cans or LPG bottles is no longer an option. There is no need to worry about the battery: topping up with water or other maintenance is not necessary.

Jungheinrich gives an extra long warranty on lithium-ion batteries. Buyers of the robust batteries receive a 5-year warranty. If the battery drops to less than 65% of its rated capacity before that time, the user will receive a free repair or even a complete replacement of the battery.

Calculate the cheapest choice
Is lithium-ion the solution for all cases? No, there are exceptions. If the forklift truck is not much demanded, a traditional, but cheaper lead-acid battery may be fine. And is there no certainty of a power supply near the work area? Then the diesel or LPG forklift remains a practical choice. In all other situations, lithium-ion is very interesting. Jungheinrich's account managers are happy to calculate the cheapest option for you. Whether it concerns purchase, rent or lease.

For more information, go to: www.jungheinrich.nl/lithium-ion† Or contact us via: 0172-446789 or info@jungheinrich.nl.