Hyster has launched a new charging solution for several of its counterbalance integrated lithium-ion electric forklift models allowing them to be charged both onboard and at standard electrical outlets.

The new onboard charging solution is available on Hyster’s J40XNTL, J40XNL, J50-60XNL, E50-60XNL and E80XNL models. It includes a charging cable with a 240 V 50-amp connection, adaptors for both 240 V 30-amp and 120 V 12-amp plugs, and a storage bin to the left of the seat for cables and adaptors. 

Hyster says recharge from lift-lockout to 100% takes a minimum of two hours and 35 minutes (6 kW, 240 V) or 11 hours and five minutes (1.4 kW, 120 V) depending on battery capacity.

The onboard charging solution, Hyster adds, is a “stronger fit for applications and locations with intermittent charging availability” such as the light manufacturing, retail and agricultural sectors.

James Nielson, Hyster’s senior business product manager for Motive Power and Electrification, says the onboard charging solution is also a good fit for places where adding new charging infrastructure is not an option or is considered too costly to be feasible.

“Because of regulations, corporate initiatives and consumer pressure, focusing on sustainability and clean power alternatives isn’t really a choice anymore — it’s a fact of life,” Nielson adds.

“Switching to integrated lithium-ion forklift fleets can help operations reduce their carbon emissions, but charging infrastructure has been a barrier for some”.