New lithium ion electric forklifts here
NEW ZEALAND’S RANGE OF HANGCHA electric forklifts has a new lithium ion-powered model that’s safer, more versatile and more user-friendly. NZ distributor Northern Forklifts says that the Hangcha XC is a premium-performance two-tonne to 3.5t capacity counterbalance forklift range, designed specifically for lithium battery power.
It continues Hangcha’s partnership with lithium battery manufacturer CATL, which sees it already offering lithium battery options on most of its electric forklifts, including powered pallet trucks, stackers, reach trucks and all A-Series counterbalance forklifts up to 5t.
The distributor says that whereas “most counterbalance machines have the heavy lead acid battery mounted relatively high in the chassis” (to allow access to the top for checking water and to vent the battery while charging), the smaller XC lithium batteries are mounted low.
This delivers “a much lower centre of gravity…greatly enhancing stability and therefore operator safety.”
An additional safety feature on the XC is a function that automatically slows the machine during turns to further reduce rollover risk.
Northern Forklifts also points out that lithium batteries are maintenancefree (no watering, no acid) and don’t release potentially explosive gas while charging. They’re also much smaller than comparable lead acid units and can be removed much more easily (and safely) – using a pallet truck, rather than a gantry or another forklift.
The machine also has improved operator ergonomics (including extra footspace), easier access to components and instrumentation – including adjustable operating parameters such as top speed, regen brake force and self-diagnosis for fault-finding – that is conveniently located at eye level on the overhead guard.
The electric drive and hydraulic motors are “extremely quiet and powerful and can be combined with a suspension operator’s seat – with integrated fingertip controls – for optimum comfort and a fatigue-free working day.”
The XC’s high water and dust-resistance ratings allow it to be used outside in the rain or in a dusty yard. The CATL batteries’ inbuilt heating capability mean the XC can also be used in freezers with no dropoff in performance, says Northern Forklifts.
The lithium ion batteries provide full battery power right up to recharge time….and a full recharge takes just two hours. They can also be “opportunity charged as often as needed, without affecting overall battery life.”The maintenance-free batteries have a five-year/10,000-hour warranty.
Northern Forklifts sees the Hangcha XC as “particularly suited to the high utilisation customer who’s looking for maximum performance from an electric forklift in varied conditions.”
T&D