Nichiyu Australia is "filling the gap" between electric and internal combustion (IC) forklifts with the release of the FBC series of electric counterbalanced forklifts for the domestic market.

Operations manager Michael Hartnett said an electric forklift that was equivalent to IC forklifts for loading and unloading containers was long overdue.

The gap between electric and IC forklifts in the Australian market has been around for many years, Hartnett said. Electric forklifts normally worked for five hours before the battery was replaced.

"Electric forklifts also struggle to work in tough applications like loading and unloading shipping containers and driving up container ramps, which shorten the battery life," he said.

The newly designed 70 volt system increases work cycles and is suited to a double shift application. The longer battery life and easier access to the battery compartment ensures the battery is economical and easier to maintain.

"The body of the new FBC is built along the lines of a gas truck, which makes the centre of gravity lower and the truck more stable while driving and lifting loads. This also gives you a higher capacity at the full height of the mast," Hartnett said.

The new forklift meets the IXP3 standard (Australian industry national standard) that states rain can hit the forklift from above at a 60 degree angle and not access its electrical components, thus ensuring safe operation.

Hartnett said the unit, manufactured by Nichiyu Japan, was available globally but only now available in Australia.

"We were to get this unit late last year but sales in the Asian market were so high that we have only just received it," he said.