A forklift operator charging a Linde counterbalanced forklift's battery with the onboard battery charger.

Onboard charging systems are growing in popularity among European forklift users, according to Linde Material Handling.

The manufacturer says since it introduced electric counterbalanced forklifts with integrated battery chargers a year ago, the optional design is now ordered for one in five electric Linde forklifts in the 1.2-2.0 tonne (2,646-4,409 pound) load category.

Linde claims it is the only forklift manufacturer to offer an integrated battery charger for its electric counterbalanced forklifts. Jungheinrich AG offers onboard battery charging for "smaller trucks", a spokesperson confirmed, while Toyota Material Handling Europe "is able to provide" the option if a customer requests it.

Linde spokeswoman Heike Oder says an onboard battery charger, located in the counterweight and similar in capacity to a forklift battery, does not in any way compromise the truck.

The power units now integrate directly in the new compact axle, creating space for the onboard battery charger. A temperature sensor ensures the battery is recharged at a rate conducive to optimum battery life. The battery's high-frequency charging technology allows for fast charging and energy savings.

"The flexibility associated with an onboard charger is another advantage," Oder says. "It enables the battery to be recharged at any available power outlet whenever convenient or necessary."

She adds that operating errors occurring from connecting to the wrong charger are also eliminated. The option is only suitable for a single-shift operation.

Another benefit of the onboard charger is the space saved by the absence of fixed charging stations that then provides a bigger loading area.

Oder explains that the inspiration behind the onboard charger came from a simpler version available with Linde pallet trucks.

"So far this new technology is only available on counterbalanced forklifts made by Linde.

"The advantages such as independence from fixed charging stations or operating errors caused by selecting the wrong charger speak for themselves. Even shocks [from driving on uneven surfaces] do no harm to the onboard battery charger."