Approximately 60 percent of the lift truck market is made up from electric models. These units derive their power from really heavy lead-acid batteries. Due to their massive weight, these batteries naturally supply much of the counterweight.
The counterbalanced version of forklifts have been classed as Class 1 forklifts by the ITA. Class 1 usually refers to electric forklifts designed for general use and stand-up counterbalanced forklifts. Though the first expense of an electric forklift is more than internal combustion forklifts, electric models are less expensive to operate in the long run. This is because of their lower fuel and maintenance expenses.
Most of the electric rider trucks manufactured and engineered within North America are made for moving material within 4 walls. Electric forklifts have traditionally been limited to indoor use with clean and smooth surfaces. With the introduction of several new Class 1 items, it is becoming more and more possible to use electric rider models in some outdoor applications.
Because of the fact that electric lift truck units provide no harmful emissions, they are typically chosen for indoor operations when compared to Internal Combustion lift trucks. Electric units could complete a full 8 hour shift on one battery charge and are very quiet when in operation. Electric unit batteries weigh around 3,000 pounds. The job of recharging, reloading and removing the batteries can be burdensome and time consuming. This situation often occurs at a battery charging zone or an area which is specially used for handling batteries. There are developing fast charging technologies becoming available on the market and these new systems are changing the method of charging batteries.
The Proper Fit
Using the correct size of lift truck to do the specific application is vital to any business application. The application itself should always dictate which product is selected.
Customers are striving to find lower operating costs and more efficient ways to reduce operating costs, all the while increasing their overall productivity, specially since the economy becomes more complex and competitive. Using the wrong size of forklift could really slow things down and have a huge impact on the bottom line and productivity of a business, while negatively affecting the production on the jobsite.
If you are unsure about what specific kind of lift truck you require, a reputable dealer will be able to ask you the right questions which would allow you to make a correct selection. Numerous dealerships provide rentals of their machinery as well and this is a very great way to try before you commit to such a large purchase. It is also a nice way to try different units out to see which ones bring you the best production and which ones you and your drivers are the most comfortable with.