Over the past 30 years, I’ve seen a lot of changes in the forklift industry. From the bulky, noisy diesel models to the sleek, efficient electric ones, it’s been quite a journey. Today, I want to talk about electric forklifts. Are they the right choice for your business? Let’s dive in.
Forklifts: A Quick Overview
Before we get into the nitty-gritty of electric forklifts, let’s quickly touch on the other main types you’ll find in New Zealand.
Diesel forklifts
These are the big guns, typically used for heavy-duty outdoor work. They’re powerful, but they come with the drawbacks of noise, emissions, and high fuel costs.
LPG forklifts
A popular choice for indoor and outdoor use, LPG forklifts offer a good balance of power and efficiency. They’re cleaner than diesel but still produce emissions.
Electric forklifts
These are the focus of today’s post, but I’ll go into more detail below.
The Electric Forklift: A Green Machine?
Now, let’s talk about electric forklifts. They’ve come a long way in recent years, and there’s no doubt they have their advantages. Here are some of the pros…
Environmentally friendly
This is a big one. Electric forklifts produce zero emissions, making them ideal for indoor environments and environmentally conscious businesses.
Lower operating costs
No fuel, less maintenance – it all adds up to significant savings.
Quieter operation
Ever worked in a warehouse with a noisy diesel forklift? It’s not pleasant. Electric forklifts are much quieter, improving working conditions.
Better for indoor air quality
No exhaust fumes means better air quality for your staff.
Improved manoeuvrability
Electric forklifts often have a tighter turning radius, making them easier to operate in confined spaces.
I’ve seen firsthand how these benefits can translate into real savings and a better working environment for our customers. For example, one of our clients, a food manufacturer, switched to electric forklifts to improve indoor air quality and reduce the risk of product contamination.
Of course, no forklift is perfect. Here are the main drawbacks of electric models.
Higher upfront cost
Electric forklifts tend to be more expensive to purchase than their diesel or LPG counterparts.
Battery charging time
You need to plan your shifts around battery charging times. However, new battery technologies are improving this.
Limited outdoor use
While some electric forklifts can handle outdoor conditions, they’re generally better suited for indoor work.
So, is an electric forklift right for you?
It depends on your specific needs. If you operate primarily indoors, have a focus on sustainability, and value a quiet working environment, then an electric forklift is worth considering.
I’ve seen firsthand how electric forklift technology has advanced over the years. They’re no longer just for light-duty applications. Today’s electric forklifts can handle heavy loads and demanding tasks.
If you’re thinking about making the switch to electric, I recommend talking to a forklift hire expert. They can assess your specific needs and recommend the right forklift for your business.
If you’re wanting to learn more about forklifts, checkout our article on forklift WoF requirements in NZ.
