With today’s consumers drawn to brands and products that are seen to be environmentally and socially responsible, sustainability is becoming embedded within the strategic business plan of more and more companies.
As a result, across all industry sectors, firms big and small are choosing to do business with suppliers that share their values about staff welfare, social equity and the environment.
Heightened environmental concerns and greater awareness of staff well-being issues are two of the factors driving the current rise in sales of ultra-low or emission-free electric-powered forklift trucks and materials handling equipment.
Historically, the forklift market has been divided circa 60-40 between LPG- or diesel-powered internal combustion (IC) engine trucks and battery-driven electric models – with diesel being the most dominant fuel.
But we are seeing a clear shift away from diesel and LPG towards electric forklifts as worries over the impact of IC engine emissions on both workers’ health and the environment prompt more and more truck users to migrate to environmentally-friendly electric-power when the time comes to upgrade their truck fleet.
Toyota’s latest range of electric counterbalance forklifts are offered with a choice of lithium-ion, lead-acid or hydrogen fuel cell power solutions.
Designed for both indoor and heavy-duty outdoor applications, lithium-ion powered Traigo80’s will operate continuously during multiple shifts at most sites without a battery change – saving the cost of additional batteries and battery changing equipment.
For example, a new Traigo80 equipped with a small lithium-ion battery can work a full 8-hour shift, with just two 15-minute charging breaks during the main operating periods, and 45 minutes of additional charging during the mid-shift meal break. Li-ion-powered Traigo80 trucks require zero battery maintenance.
Meanwhile, for users that choose the traditional lead-acid battery option, the new truck offers quick and easy sideways battery changing, while improved motor and component technology means the lead acid battery-driven Traigo80 consumes 15% less energy when compared to the previous model – even in the most intense and demanding applications.
In addition to lithium-ion and lead acid batteries the Toyota Traigo80 is also available with hydrogen fuel cells. For users that have the benefit of an on-site hydrogen supply, hydrogen fuel cells can be refuelled in just a few minutes and allow emission-free operation. Toyota is leading the way with its hydrogen development as a fuel for the future with trials currently taking place at Teeside Airport.
Available in capacities from 2 to 3.5 tonnes with lift heights up to 6.5 metres, the new Traigo80 is designed for the toughest environments and features high-level protected motors that deliver best-in-class performance and durability in all weather conditions.
The Traigo80’s new operator compartment has been ergonomically designed and features an updated adjustable armrest and lots of storage compartments. An optional integrated colour touchscreen display provides key information such as lift height, load weight and mast position, while a multifunction display screen with push-button controls is also available.
Sam Gray, Sales Training and Product Development Manager, Toyota Material Handling UK, comments: “The launch of Toyota’s new Traigo80 counterbalance range means companies that run the most intensive indoor or outdoor operations or whose applications demand trucks that deliver peak performance in the harshest environments, can make the transition to emission-free electric- powered forklift technology with no compromise on reliability or durability.
“Toyota Material Handling is committed to sustainability across its business and this new range of electric trucks has an important role to play in reducing the environmental impact of all companies that rely on forklifts within their business – from single truck users to the biggest fleet operators.”
For more information on Toyota Material Handling’s electric counterbalance range visit toyota-forklifts.co.uk/make-the-shift
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