Hyster-Yale Materials Handling has launched a new line of indoor-outdoor lithium-ion powered forklifts in the United Kingdom that can lift up to 3.5 T.

Hyster says the models in its J2.0-3.5XTLG series deliver performance comparable to internal combustion engine (ICE) forklifts.

“Many industrial businesses are looking to drive down emissions and are keen to replace ICE models with electric fleets. But they need to do so cost-effectively, while maintaining high performance and productivity,” says Fraser Brash, product manager for Hyster. “The new Hyster lift trucks are a competitively priced, emission free option with tried and tested toughness built in.”

The new Hyster electric models can be used inside industrial warehouses and outside in yards or loading areas in the wood, metals, chemical or construction materials industries.

Opportunity charging forklifts during breaks helps maximise uptime across shifts, while eliminating engine servicing and battery changes also helps save valuable operational time.

Lithium-ion charging can be more efficient compared to charging a lead acid battery, providing users with more power, without additional cost.

Hyster says energy costs can typically be halved with the new Hyster models compared to an ICE counterpart.