Powering materials handling in manufacturing

There are a range of reasons why engine powered forklifts such as Toyota’s Tonero range would have been chosen for manufacturing applications. These include the perception that engine powered fork trucks are better suited to working outside, that they avoid the complications of having batteries particularly if used over multi-shift work and that they can be refuelled quickly, avoiding the need for a lengthy charging period. But with advances in battery technology, such as the introduction of Lithium-Ion cells, battery powered forklifts are becoming ever more popular because they overcome many of the perceived shortfalls of electric powered trucks.

Cleaner engines

Of course, dependent upon the application and environment that the forklift is operating in, engine power, be it diesel or gas, may still be the best option. Diesel engines have continued to evolve and become cleaner to operate with decreasing emissions. All of Toyota’s Tonero range of engine powered forklifts meet the latest emission regulations and with Toyota manufacturing its own engines, the quality and performance is assured.

Battery powered trucks

Increasingly, electric forklift trucks such as Toyota’s Traigo range are being used in applications which would have previously been the remit of engine powered trucks. Why is this? There are many reasons why a battery powered or electric forklift would be used in place of an engine powered truck in a manufacturing setting. These include, developments in battery technology (see the Lithium-Ion batteries below) but there’s more besides. Electric forklift trucks can operate in inclement weather and are quite happy being operated outside as well as inside a facility.

There have been advances in efficiency which mean that whatever battery your truck is using will last longer. Electric trucks can also make a big contribution to the overall sustainability of an operation which is a big focus in many manufacturing environments and at a local level, they have zero emissions. Typically, over the long term, electric trucks can be more cost efficient than engine powered trucks meaning that they offer a better return on investment.

Lithium-Ion batteries

Whilst Lithium-Ion batteries for forklifts have been around for some time now, there’s never been a better time to consider using them in an operation. Increasing recognition of the advantages they bring, together with increased adoption has made them an even more attractive choice as a power source. Toyota Material Handling now makes its own Lithium-Ion batteries giving total control in their configuration and specification. Not only do Lithium-Ion batteries last longer in operation, reducing the need for battery change. They also offer the benefit of opportunity charging (charging trucks for example whilst an operator is on a break) and charging more quickly, which means more time in operation and less time charging.

Traigo 80HT

Toyota’s Traigo range of battery powered forklift trucks extends across a full range from incredibly compact one tonne capacity trucks through to the latest Toyota Traigo 80HT which has a load capacity of 6 to 8 tonnes. 

The Traigo 80HT is perhaps the Toyota model that best shows how well suited to manufacturing an electric forklift can be. With class leading performance this high capacity truck is designed for heavy duty work and is a quiet, efficient and powerful electric alternative to engine powered trucks. As well as being efficient the Traigo 80HT has been carefully designed to offer a comfortable working environment for its operator, who benefits from a full floating operator’s compartment and excellent all round visibility. The Traigo 80HT also has a quick access battery compartment and easy maintenance access – meaning that the truck has less downtime and higher availability. Alongside this, the Traigo 80HT uses electric power steering to aid lower energy consumption and can be configured with a variety of different battery technologies to allow it to meet all needs.

Like all of Toyota’s forklifts, the Traigo 80HT benefits from Toyota’s unique System of Active Stability (SAS). By protecting the operator and load when driving, turning and lifting, SAS provides advanced technology increasing safety in the workplace and improving productivity.

Traigo or Tonero?

Whilst battery powered forklifts such as Toyota’s Traigo range continue to grow in popularity and are increasingly used in manufacturing applications, internal combustion (IC) engine forklifts like Toyota’s Tonero range are still widely used and with both gas and diesel engines that are increasingly clean and efficient in operation.

So, what power source should you choose for your materials handling needs? Contact Toyota Material Handling and we can put you in contact with your local Toyota expert who can advise, assist and provide you with more information.

To learn more about choosing the right power source for materials handling in your application or to get more information on Toyota’s range of material handling equipment, including the Tonero and Traigo range of forklifts, please visit www.toyota-forklifts.co.uk or call on 0370 850 1409.