3PL invests in electric forklift fleet
Knowles Logistics has taken a significant step in its sustainability journey by converting 90 of its 103-strong fleet of forklifts to electric models.
THE INVESTMENT represents a milestone in Knowles’ commitment to reducing its environmental footprint and supporting a more sustainable logistics industry.
The new fleet – comprising 60 electric forklifts including double handlers (EP40s), counterbalance trucks (EP20s), Flexi trucks and Aisle Masters – will operate across the Knowles network.
The electric trucks have been sourced via a three-year lease agreement with Impact Handling and are manufactured by CAT and Toyota.
By replacing gas-powered trucks with electric models, Knowles is achieving a substantial carbon saving of 460 tonnes of CO₂ emissions annually across the network.
The new fleet is supported by charging infrastructure powered by Fronius Charge & Connect, a dashboard system that monitors the health and status of batteries in real time. This enables round-the-clock operation through a blend of opportunity and scheduled charging, in a bid to ensure uptime and preserve the five-year lifespan of each battery.
Knowles continues to work towards its target of implementing a fully-electric fleet within 12 months.
Managing director Alex Knowles, says: “The long-term goal is to operate a fully electric fleet across all applicable sites. We’re approaching this transition strategically and the early results are encouraging, not just for carbon savings, but for improved performance and reduced maintenance costs as well.”
