In a world that’s dominated by internal combustion (IC) engines for centuries, electric forklifts have grown largely popular in just a span of few years.
Modern industries today have a whole range of forklift options to choose from, depending on their operations and needs. With the advancements in battery technology, electric forklifts have evolved in performance and capabilities to match traditional forklifts. From warehouses to outdoor rugged terrains, electric forklifts have become versatile and efficient.
With more businesses looking to shift towards green, sustainable energy solutions, it’s easy to see why electric forklifts have become a prominent choice in material handling. Let’s take a look at some of the benefits that electric forklifts can bring to your business.
1. Environmental Impact
One of the biggest benefits of electric forklifts is their environmental friendliness. Unlike diesel or gas-powered forklifts, electric forklifts produce zero harmful emissions. For operations in indoor spaces such as warehouses, they provide a safer, more comfortable working environment for your operators and employees. Companies that are also looking to comply with government emission regulations choose electric forklifts to reduce their carbon footprint.
2. Cost Savings
Despite being more expensive to purchase initially than IC forklifts, electric forklifts do result in significant cost savings over time. With just a few moving parts, electric forklifts have less maintenance costs. No need to go through changing the engine oil or checking CO emissions in exhaust gas. Some battery electric forklifts are equipped with maintenance-free lithium-ion batteries that don't require constant watering, equalize charging, or cleaning.
3. Improved Performance
Recent innovations in battery technology have enabled electric forklifts to take their performance to the next level. The tighter turning radius and small, compact frame makes them more manoeuvrable. Electric forklifts are also more agile – they’re capable of changing direction without coming to a complete stop. Combine this with the seamless acceleration and instant torque features, electric forklifts can give your operations a huge boost in productivity and efficiency.
4. Operator Comfort
Aside from generating zero emissions during operation, electric forklifts also produce less noise. Operators and employees can hear each other more clearly, creating a safer workspace. With the low vibration feature or electric forklifts, your operators may find it easier and more comfortable to work with them even for long hours.
5. Versatility
When it comes to versatility, electric forklifts are gearing up to be at par with traditional forklifts. Because they emit no toxic fumes during operation, they’re perfect for use in enclosed spaces such as warehouses, factories, and distribution centres. Improvements in technology have also paved the way for heavy-duty, powerful electric forklifts that are suitable for outdoor operations. They are also highly customisable with safety features and forklift attachments that can help them take on any job, any day.
Whether you have lightweight tasks or heavy-duty lifting that need to be completed, electric forklifts are capable of delivering the performance that you require. If you’re planning to make the switch to greener, more sustainable material handling solutions, an electric forklift is definitely worth considering.