Clark has relaunched the GEX and GTX series, now available with lithium-ion batteries.

The three- and four-wheel electric forklifts in 48-volt technology with load capacities of 1.6 to 2 T are the first counterbalance trucks with Li-ion batteries and are being pitched at customers with intensive applications, particularly in multi-shift operations in distribution or industry.

"The Clark lithium-ion batteries are efficient energy bundles that impress with their high availability," explains Rolf Eiten, president and CEO, Clark Europe. "When developing our lithium-ion solution, it was important to us that the customer … not only benefit from all the advantages of this technology, but that in combination with an already proven Clark electric forklift series, he receives a logistics solution at the usual price-performance ratio, which also pays off for smaller and medium-sized operations."

The Clark Li-ion solution consists of the Li-ion battery including battery management system (BMS) and a high-frequency charger. The battery capacity is 460 Ah for all models in the GTX/GEX series. This means that both the vehicles with a smaller wheelbase and those with a larger wheelbase have the same battery power. The 48 v (160 A) charger only requires a power connection (CEE 16 A plug) and fully recharges the battery in as little as 2.5 hours. The charging status of the Li-ion battery is shown on the truck display during the charging process. The BMS has a safety cut-out and thus ensures safe use of the battery.

Two traction motors in the parallel front drive, each with 4.4 kW power and 48 v three-phase technology, ensure rapid acceleration of the vehicles and travel speeds of up to 16 km/h. The AC motors used are designed to be wear-free and very robust.

The GTX/GEX electric trucks have lift heights of up to 7,075 mm. The range is available with two wheelbases. The GTX16/GEX16 has a wheelbase of 1,312 mm. The GTX18/GEX18 and the GTX20s and GEX20s each have a wheelbase of 1,420 mm.

"The investment in a Li-ion truck is not only worthwhile for intensive applications, but also for all drivers who want to operate a maintenance-free, long-lasting and fast-charging battery with a high safety standard," says Eiten.