Electrification...

With the 2030 ban on petrol and diesel engines approaching, the next few years are set to see a dramatic shift in the way businesses equip and run their material handling operations.

From upgrading your current equipment and switching your fuel source, to revising operator shift patterns and adapting your warehouse, there’s plenty to consider.

At W Hall -The Forklift Centre, we’re on hand to help guide your electrification journey, from choosing the right forklifts for your application, to identifying the most cost-effective battery solution for your business.

While the ban on ICE trucks might seem a long way off, being ready for the change won’t happen overnight. Our team are here to help you plan and prepare for the future.

What is electrification?

Put simply, electrification is the process of changing from a traditional power source (diesel and LPG forklifts) to a source powered by electricity (such as a battery-powered forklift).

The future of electrification

It goes without saying that the future is electric, with the uptake of electric vehicles (EVs) on the rise and new technologies constantly emerging. The material handling industry is no exception.

By 2030, petrol and diesel engines will no longer be available to purchase. As such, businesses must consider their options now and identify alternatives by the time the regulation comes in.

In a few years’ time (if not before), warehouses will look very different from how they are today — equipped with the latest battery-powered equipment and fully adapted to accommodate battery charging stations and in turn, alternative shift patterns.

The benefits of electrification

In the material handling industry, switching to electric forklifts boasts numerous benefits for businesses, including:

Reduced fuel costs have a cumulative effect on TCO

Despite the higher acquisition cost, your initial investment will allow you to enjoy the long-term benefits of reduced fuel costs, and in turn a lower total cost of ownership (TCO).

The money that you save on fuel can then be reinvested elsewhere in your business as needed.

Fewer breakable parts

Aside from the savings you’ll make on fuel costs, electric forklifts are easier to maintain than their diesel counterparts. This makes servicing quick and straightforward, maximising uptime. Electric forklifts also have fewer breakable parts than diesel trucks, and the associated issues tend to be minor and easily fixed.

By simplifying maintenance procedures to reduce downtime, your business could see even further savings that reduce the cost of your forklift fleet.

Reduced noise levels

Electric trucks are considerably quieter to operate compared to ICE trucks and therefore minimise disturbance. Making the switch could even allow you to facilitate extended operating hours, maximising your warehouse’s output potential.

Less noise will also have a positive impact on operator safety and efficiency, improving visibility and reducing the likelihood of forklift accidents.

Cleaner work environment

Switching from diesel and LPG trucks to electric forklifts will also help to promote a cleaner, healthier work environment for employees.

Healthier, happier employees can reduce absences and even staff turnover, which will have a positive knock-on effect on warehouse productivity.

Reduced CO2 emissions

Last but certainly not least, incorporating electric forklifts in your operation will reduce harmful CO2 emissions and lower your business’ carbon footprint.

If you’re ready to lower your fuel costs, create a healthier work environment for employees, and reduce your carbon footprint, now is the time to start preparing for the electrification of your fleet.

W Hall – The Forklift Centre offer a full range of machines from leading manufacturers including TCM and Crown to help you start your electrification journey. To find out more contact a member of our team.

We would be happy to arrange a free site survey to assess your needs.