New battery brand for Clark trucks

THE BATTERY solution was developed for the entire range of Clark electric-powered industrial trucks (48 to 80 volts). The launch is accompanied by a new multi-voltage charger that can handle both voltage classes. With its networked Clark Fusion battery technology, the industrial truck manufacturer is setting new standards for efficiency and transparency in Intralogistics 4.0.

With Clark Fusion, Clark addresses the core needs of modern logistics centres: maximum handling performance with minimum operating costs (TCO). Fusion batteries can be seamlessly integrated into Clark electric forklift models – from the compact three- and four-wheel forklifts with 48 volts in the S-Series Electric (STE16-20, SE16-20) to the larger 80-volt electric forklifts (SE25-35 (S-Series Electric), L25-35XE (Raider), S25-35XE (Renegade), GEX40-50), thus providing future-proof technology for electric forklift fleets.

“With the universal Clark Fusion batteries, we offer customers an efficient and highly compatible solution for mixed forklift fleets,” explains Stefan Budweit, president & CEO of Clark Europe. “This innovation underlines our commitment to continuously optimising operational processes through smart technologies.”

Fusion batteries support both fast charging and opportunity charging during work breaks. Most Clark electric forklift models with Li-ion technology achieve a full charge in just around two hours. This enables virtually uninterrupted multi-shift operation without time-consuming battery changes. The new multi-voltage charger supports both 48-volt and 80-volt batteries. It automatically adjusts to the respective battery voltage. The charger can be connected to either a 16 A or 32 A wall socket. This means that one charger can be used for the entire forklift fleet.

Lithium-ion batteries use the energy supplied extremely efficiently. Up to 95% of the energy absorbed by the charger is actually stored in the battery. With lead-acid batteries, a significantly larger proportion is lost as heat. This reduces the electricity costs per charging process and shortens the charging cycles. In addition, the voltage remains stable throughout the entire discharge cycle – for full lifting and driving performance right up to the last minute of the shift.

The sealed Fusion Li-ion batteries are completely maintenance-free. There is no need to top up with distilled water or to have special charging rooms with complex ventilation systems. This not only saves valuable storage space, but also increases safety at work by eliminating the risk of acid splashes or dangerous vapours.

A particular highlight of Fusion batteries is their standard heating system. This ensures that the vehicles can also operate in extremely cold conditions. The heating function enables safe charging at sub-zero temperatures. It ensures constant power output by maintaining the battery cells at an optimum operating temperature.

Fusion batteries are characterised by a significantly extended service life. Depending on the application profile, at least twice as many charging cycles are possible as with lead-acid batteries.

At the heart of the technology is the intelligent battery management system (BMS). It communicates directly with the vehicle and the charger via CAN bus and continuously monitors all relevant operating data. Via the forklift display, the driver has full transparency of the charge status at all times. The BMS actively protects the battery from deep discharge and overcharging. This ensures the longevity of the investment. A new feature at Clark is the integrated 4G module: it enables fleet managers to monitor battery data in real time and perform remote diagnostics via the mobile network.