Subscribe

Month: June 2023

Ports Help in Reducing Shipping Emissions

Posted on by Keith McKinley

The International Maritime Organization (IMO) has long been committed to reducing the industry’s carbon footprint, aiming for a minimum 50% reduction in GHG emissions by 2050 through stricter regulations and improved energy efficiency. However, recent discussions at the Green4Sea Forum in Athens have highlighted IMO’s challenges in developing credible plans and policies. Suppose the IMO fails to provide effective solutions. In that case, there is a risk that regional and national authorities will take unilateral actions to regulate emissions, potentially fragmenting the global shipping industry’s operations.

In the quest to reduce the shipping industry’s greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions, it has become increasingly evident that slow-steaming, a commonly employed strategy, may not be the ultimate solution everyone thought. Recent studies by Simpson Spence & Young and Clarksons have cast doubt on the effectiveness of slow-steaming, a widely employed strategy. These studies suggest that the benefits of slow steaming may have been overestimated due to unrealistic assumptions about fuel consumption and ship speed. Real-world evidence indicates that the relationship between ship speed and fuel consumption is more nuanced than previously believed, challenging the assumptions underlying the International Maritime Organization’s (IMO) Carbon Intensity Indicator (CII) regulation. This calls for a re-evaluation of strategies.

Instead, a greater focus on the role of ports in achieving emission reduction goals is beginning to be recognized and their role in helping shipping lines achieve emission reduction targets. Acknowledging ports as key partners in the fight against emissions highlights the need for a comprehensive approach to environmental sustainability in the maritime sector.

This recognition highlights the need for a comprehensive approach to environmental sustainability in the maritime sector, with ports serving as vital partners in the fight against emissions. So as the industry navigates these complexities, there is an urgent call for holistic approaches encompassing the entire logistics chain, with ports playing a pivotal role in achieving emission reduction targets.

The maritime sector is also increasingly turning to data-driven decision-making and digital solutions to address these challenges and accelerate the industry’s adaptation to a changing world. One notable example that brings these two ways of thinking together is the Port of Rotterdam, which has embarked on a sustainability journey to minimize its environmental impact. However, obtaining accurate real-time data on transport emissions proved to be a significant hurdle for the port, hampering the implementation of targeted improvement strategies.

To overcome this challenge, the Port of Rotterdam employed PortXchange Synchronizer developed by PortXchange, a spinoff of the Port of Rotterdam, a digital solution designed to align all stakeholders in a port call, reduce emissions and facilitate just-in-time arrivals. In addition to the implementation of PortXchange Synchronizer, the Port of Rotterdam launched PortXchange EmissionInsider, a solution to monitor and analyze transport-related emissions. This solution enabled the port to gain unprecedented visibility into its transport emissions, standardize reporting and identify areas with the greatest potential for decarbonization. By leveraging AI algorithms and data triangulation, the platform provided comprehensive emissions profiles for each ship within the port’s jurisdiction, enabling data-driven decision-making to support emission reduction strategies.

Through the implementation of PortXchange Synchronizer, the port achieved a 20% reduction in CO2 emissions from shipping operations and a 15% decrease in NOx emissions. Collaboration with shipping companies was pivotal in promoting greener practices and driving sustainability initiatives forward.

The maritime industry is at a critical juncture where embracing digitalization, data-driven decision-making, and collaboration between ports and shipping lines are vital. By leveraging innovative technologies and taking a comprehensive approach to emissions reduction, the industry can pave the way for a greener and more sustainable future.

Ringtread Tyre Hits ‘A’ in Energy Saving

Posted on by David Priestman

Marangoni is proud to announce that it has manufactured a Ringtread tyre that achieved an ‘A’ class energy saving level in the same test used for new tyres (ECE.R 117). The significant result, achieved using a special Blackline ring, was certified by the Prüflabor Nord laboratory carrying out the same test used for new tyres.

This amazing result was achieved by applying a Blackline tread ring with an optimised design for low rolling resistance on a high quality casing, which featured the best rolling resistance class already in its first life. Retreading took place at MARANGONI’s plant in Rovereto, Italy, where the group’s headquarters and R&D centre are also located.

The ring used for this test was manufactured by MARANGONI using a special compound created ad hoc for the occasion. This pivotal element, combined with the specific performance features of the Blackline RTL FE tread pattern and the peculiarities offered by the RINGTREAD System (first and foremost no splices and no structural deformation), made it possible to create a retreaded tyre capable of achieving “A” class rolling resistance according to the same standards used for new tyres.

The result of the test, carried out by the independent test laboratory Prüflabor Nord, has met with a very positive response from industry experts, as few new tyres can boast such a satisfactory result.

Vittorio Marangoni, Chairman of the MARANGONI Group, stated: “This important achievement demonstrates our ongoing commitment to providing innovative solutions that curb environmental impact, even in the use phase, without undermining performance. It is further evidence that by implementing high quality standards, the retreaded tyre can perform at the level of the best new tyres.”

The announcement was made in advance to visitors at Transport Logistic, on the occasion of MARANGONI’s first participation in the leading European logistics event, which took place from 9 to 12 May in Munich. The novelty attracted great interest from the public, given the increasing focus of fleets on reducing energy costs.

Vittorio Marangoni concluded with these words: “We will continue to invest in research and development of advanced technologies in the tyre retreading industry. We want to offer end users products that combine high performance with an increasingly smaller environmental footprint. This achievement further spurs us on in our commitment to promoting environmentally friendly, high-performance and state-of-the-art solutions.”

 

Ringtread Tyre Hits ‘A’ in Energy Saving

Posted on by David Priestman

Marangoni is proud to announce that it has manufactured a Ringtread tyre that achieved an ‘A’ class energy saving level in the same test used for new tyres (ECE.R 117). The significant result, achieved using a special Blackline ring, was certified by the Prüflabor Nord laboratory carrying out the same test used for new tyres.

This amazing result was achieved by applying a Blackline tread ring with an optimised design for low rolling resistance on a high quality casing, which featured the best rolling resistance class already in its first life. Retreading took place at MARANGONI’s plant in Rovereto, Italy, where the group’s headquarters and R&D centre are also located.

The ring used for this test was manufactured by MARANGONI using a special compound created ad hoc for the occasion. This pivotal element, combined with the specific performance features of the Blackline RTL FE tread pattern and the peculiarities offered by the RINGTREAD System (first and foremost no splices and no structural deformation), made it possible to create a retreaded tyre capable of achieving “A” class rolling resistance according to the same standards used for new tyres.

The result of the test, carried out by the independent test laboratory Prüflabor Nord, has met with a very positive response from industry experts, as few new tyres can boast such a satisfactory result.

Vittorio Marangoni, Chairman of the MARANGONI Group, stated: “This important achievement demonstrates our ongoing commitment to providing innovative solutions that curb environmental impact, even in the use phase, without undermining performance. It is further evidence that by implementing high quality standards, the retreaded tyre can perform at the level of the best new tyres.”

The announcement was made in advance to visitors at Transport Logistic, on the occasion of MARANGONI’s first participation in the leading European logistics event, which took place from 9 to 12 May in Munich. The novelty attracted great interest from the public, given the increasing focus of fleets on reducing energy costs.

Vittorio Marangoni concluded with these words: “We will continue to invest in research and development of advanced technologies in the tyre retreading industry. We want to offer end users products that combine high performance with an increasingly smaller environmental footprint. This achievement further spurs us on in our commitment to promoting environmentally friendly, high-performance and state-of-the-art solutions.”

 

IFOY Test Report: Hikrobot F4-1000C

Posted on by David Priestman

In the next of our comprehensive looks at all the IFOY Award finalists ahead of the announcement ceremony in Dortmund on June 22nd, we come to the first of several entries from China, the F4-1000C AGV from Hikrobot.

Category: Automated Guided Vehicle (AGV / AMR)

IFOY Test Report

Hikrobot introduces the F4-1000C, or F4 for short, a super-compact AGV designed specifically for use in narrow aisles or confined spaces. It can be used in a variety of conditions, from logistics to production environments. With a chassis of just 400mm (1,600mm including forks) and a width of 800mm, the IFOY nominee appears extremely slim. Despite its compact size, the AGV with forks can effortlessly transport and lift loads of 1,000kg up to a height of 1.3m. At the maximum lifting height of 3m, the residual load capacity is 600kg.

With travel speeds of 1.8m/s (without load) and 1.2m/s (with load), the robot is faster than many competitors. Lifting speed is 0.5m/s (unloaded) and 0.3m/s (loaded). Lifting accuracy is ±2mm.

The CE-certified F4-1000C is equipped with numerous safety features that ensure safe cooperation between man and machine. It operates precisely and reliably with a positioning accuracy of ±5mm. At the IFOY presentation, the F4 detected pallets that were not fully in position thanks to the camera in the fork carriage. If a pallet deviates by up to 10°, the AGV detects this and independently corrects its position.

Hikrobot’s in-house fleet management system can also be easily adapted to the requirements and systems of customers in different industries. No third party is required for this, eliminating additional work and costs.

The F4-1000C is controlled by Hikrobot’s robot control system (RCS). This system optimises routes and avoids congestion and traffic delays. According to Hikrobot, this increases efficiency by two to three times.

The F4 navigates with SLAM technology. The 48V/70Ah lithium-ion battery is sufficient for eight hours of use on a full charge, according to Hikrobot.

Regardless of the workflow or deployment situation, the F4-1000C ensures a smooth flow of goods. The F4 is one of the few robots that can operate in both logistics environments and industrial deployment situations. The F4’s “mother tongue” is Italian, but it can provide feedback in all European languages.

The manufacturer considers the attractive price to be a major plus point. Since the Chinese manufacturer  ̶  with the exception of the SICK sensor  ̶  develops and produces all components in-house, Hikrobot retains maximum control over the supply chain. In addition, this allows the manufacturer to respond to a wide variety of customer requests and requirements. In other words, maximum flexibility at a competitive price. By its own account, Hikrobot delivers the F4 at a price that is at least 30% lower than any competitor. To maintain control of the supply chain after delivery, Hikrobot has a European headquarters and spare parts centre in Hoofddorp, the Netherlands.

IFOY test verdict: Thanks to its compact size, the independent F4-1000C maximises the use of storage space. Its manoeuvrability gives users a great advantage in both logistics and industry.

IFOY Innovation Check

Market relevance: Vehicles like the F4 1000C with a fork for standard pallet skids have a large market. The 1200x800mm pallet format and other load carriers with these basic dimensions, such as mesh boxes or large load carriers, are used in very many companies in Europe.

Customer benefit: The extremely compact design of the vehicle with a short body for drive and control results in a vehicle length of only 1640mm. This enables the F4-1000C to place the DIN pallet format 1200x1000mm crosswise in a rack after a 90° turn, even in a storage aisle that is only 2052mm wide. The manoeuvrability of the compact vehicle enables a good utility value for the user.

Novelty / Innovation: Even in this compact design, the vehicle is not exceptionally new. Market competitors already have vehicles with omnidirectional drive in their portfolio, which currently represent the benchmark in the compact industrial truck segment.

Functionality / Type of implementation: In addition to its compactness, the F4-1000C offers many good functions and features that are beneficial to the user. These include the autonomy functions, such as the well-functioning avoidance of obstacles. The demonstration of detecting load carriers outside the specified pick-up position, for example twisted or shifted, did not work in the successive tests.

Verdict: Vehicles like the F4 1000C have a very large market, as the 1200x800mm pallet format is used in very many companies. The manoeuvrability of the vehicle enables good benefits for the users. Even in this compact design, the vehicle is not exceptionally new, but offers good functions and features for the user.

Market relevance ++
Customer benefit +
Novelty / Innovation Ø
Functionality / Type of implementation +
[KEY: ++ very good / + good / Ø balanced / – less / — not available]

IFOY Test Report: Hikrobot F4-1000C

Posted on by David Priestman

In the next of our comprehensive looks at all the IFOY Award finalists ahead of the announcement ceremony in Dortmund on June 22nd, we come to the first of several entries from China, the F4-1000C AGV from Hikrobot.

Category: Automated Guided Vehicle (AGV / AMR)

IFOY Test Report

Hikrobot introduces the F4-1000C, or F4 for short, a super-compact AGV designed specifically for use in narrow aisles or confined spaces. It can be used in a variety of conditions, from logistics to production environments. With a chassis of just 400mm (1,600mm including forks) and a width of 800mm, the IFOY nominee appears extremely slim. Despite its compact size, the AGV with forks can effortlessly transport and lift loads of 1,000kg up to a height of 1.3m. At the maximum lifting height of 3m, the residual load capacity is 600kg.

With travel speeds of 1.8m/s (without load) and 1.2m/s (with load), the robot is faster than many competitors. Lifting speed is 0.5m/s (unloaded) and 0.3m/s (loaded). Lifting accuracy is ±2mm.

The CE-certified F4-1000C is equipped with numerous safety features that ensure safe cooperation between man and machine. It operates precisely and reliably with a positioning accuracy of ±5mm. At the IFOY presentation, the F4 detected pallets that were not fully in position thanks to the camera in the fork carriage. If a pallet deviates by up to 10°, the AGV detects this and independently corrects its position.

Hikrobot’s in-house fleet management system can also be easily adapted to the requirements and systems of customers in different industries. No third party is required for this, eliminating additional work and costs.

The F4-1000C is controlled by Hikrobot’s robot control system (RCS). This system optimises routes and avoids congestion and traffic delays. According to Hikrobot, this increases efficiency by two to three times.

The F4 navigates with SLAM technology. The 48V/70Ah lithium-ion battery is sufficient for eight hours of use on a full charge, according to Hikrobot.

Regardless of the workflow or deployment situation, the F4-1000C ensures a smooth flow of goods. The F4 is one of the few robots that can operate in both logistics environments and industrial deployment situations. The F4’s “mother tongue” is Italian, but it can provide feedback in all European languages.

The manufacturer considers the attractive price to be a major plus point. Since the Chinese manufacturer  ̶  with the exception of the SICK sensor  ̶  develops and produces all components in-house, Hikrobot retains maximum control over the supply chain. In addition, this allows the manufacturer to respond to a wide variety of customer requests and requirements. In other words, maximum flexibility at a competitive price. By its own account, Hikrobot delivers the F4 at a price that is at least 30% lower than any competitor. To maintain control of the supply chain after delivery, Hikrobot has a European headquarters and spare parts centre in Hoofddorp, the Netherlands.

IFOY test verdict: Thanks to its compact size, the independent F4-1000C maximises the use of storage space. Its manoeuvrability gives users a great advantage in both logistics and industry.

IFOY Innovation Check

Market relevance: Vehicles like the F4 1000C with a fork for standard pallet skids have a large market. The 1200x800mm pallet format and other load carriers with these basic dimensions, such as mesh boxes or large load carriers, are used in very many companies in Europe.

Customer benefit: The extremely compact design of the vehicle with a short body for drive and control results in a vehicle length of only 1640mm. This enables the F4-1000C to place the DIN pallet format 1200x1000mm crosswise in a rack after a 90° turn, even in a storage aisle that is only 2052mm wide. The manoeuvrability of the compact vehicle enables a good utility value for the user.

Novelty / Innovation: Even in this compact design, the vehicle is not exceptionally new. Market competitors already have vehicles with omnidirectional drive in their portfolio, which currently represent the benchmark in the compact industrial truck segment.

Functionality / Type of implementation: In addition to its compactness, the F4-1000C offers many good functions and features that are beneficial to the user. These include the autonomy functions, such as the well-functioning avoidance of obstacles. The demonstration of detecting load carriers outside the specified pick-up position, for example twisted or shifted, did not work in the successive tests.

Verdict: Vehicles like the F4 1000C have a very large market, as the 1200x800mm pallet format is used in very many companies. The manoeuvrability of the vehicle enables good benefits for the users. Even in this compact design, the vehicle is not exceptionally new, but offers good functions and features for the user.

Market relevance ++
Customer benefit +
Novelty / Innovation Ø
Functionality / Type of implementation +
[KEY: ++ very good / + good / Ø balanced / – less / — not available]

Telescopic Lip Dock Leveller

Posted on by David Priestman

The continuing growth of e-commerce and last-mile deliveries within the UK logistics sector results in distributors and operators looking for even greater flexibility and speed when loading/unloading all types of fleet vehicles. The innovative HTLV4 dock leveller from Hörmann UK can provide a safe and adaptable solution with its unique 3-part telescopic lip making it suitable for all vehicles sizes including euro-trailers, through to transit vans.

Removing the need for separate loading bays with different ramp heights to accommodate either lorries or vans, the HTLV4 dock leveller is a cost effective and space saving solution. Designed with a three-piece telescopic lip and variable weight compensation the HTLV4 can operate either across its full telescopic lip as a conventional dock leveller or with the extension of only the middle section to accommodate smaller vehicles and transit vans. The dock leveller has a self-supporting articulated design and is manufactured in accordance with EN 1398. It is available in three standard widths and four standard lengths making it suitable for the majority of operational conditions.

For the loading and unloading of vans the HTLV4 has been manufactured with a patented, intelligent hydraulic system. Two hydraulic cylinders allow the dock leveller to follow the movement of the loading surface of the vehicle, reducing the transference of weight from the leveller onto the back of the van. This, combined with the positive positioning of the leveller at every point of the loading operation, results in a safer working environment for loading operatives, protects the vehicle from harsh loading forces and prevents overloading of the leveller.

For lorries the HTLV4 operates across its whole telescopic width without any compromise in performance and safety when compared to a standard dock leveller. Fully extended the HTLV4 provides an impressive maximum rated load of 60kN and when the leveller is operating with just the middle section extended for smaller vehicles, a maximum load of 20kN can be accommodated.

Industrial Division Manager for Hörmann, Phil Thorpe comments, “At Hörmann our aim is to provide a loading solution suitable for every situation and environment, and to find ways to help streamline processes for more efficient workflows. The HTLV4 dock leveller is an update to our successful HTVL3 model and just another example of how we have used our expertise to create an innovative solution to what is a growing issue within the logistics sector. Whilst there are other products on the market that facilitate the loading and unloading of different sized vehicles, Hörmann is the only manufacturer to offer a product that has been designed specifically for this purpose.

Not only does the HTLV4 continue to offer maximum flexibility, but it also ensures that operators can extend their loading capacity in terms of performance, whilst not compromising the safety of their workforce.“

Telescopic Lip Dock Leveller

Posted on by David Priestman

The continuing growth of e-commerce and last-mile deliveries within the UK logistics sector results in distributors and operators looking for even greater flexibility and speed when loading/unloading all types of fleet vehicles. The innovative HTLV4 dock leveller from Hörmann UK can provide a safe and adaptable solution with its unique 3-part telescopic lip making it suitable for all vehicles sizes including euro-trailers, through to transit vans.

Removing the need for separate loading bays with different ramp heights to accommodate either lorries or vans, the HTLV4 dock leveller is a cost effective and space saving solution. Designed with a three-piece telescopic lip and variable weight compensation the HTLV4 can operate either across its full telescopic lip as a conventional dock leveller or with the extension of only the middle section to accommodate smaller vehicles and transit vans. The dock leveller has a self-supporting articulated design and is manufactured in accordance with EN 1398. It is available in three standard widths and four standard lengths making it suitable for the majority of operational conditions.

For the loading and unloading of vans the HTLV4 has been manufactured with a patented, intelligent hydraulic system. Two hydraulic cylinders allow the dock leveller to follow the movement of the loading surface of the vehicle, reducing the transference of weight from the leveller onto the back of the van. This, combined with the positive positioning of the leveller at every point of the loading operation, results in a safer working environment for loading operatives, protects the vehicle from harsh loading forces and prevents overloading of the leveller.

For lorries the HTLV4 operates across its whole telescopic width without any compromise in performance and safety when compared to a standard dock leveller. Fully extended the HTLV4 provides an impressive maximum rated load of 60kN and when the leveller is operating with just the middle section extended for smaller vehicles, a maximum load of 20kN can be accommodated.

Industrial Division Manager for Hörmann, Phil Thorpe comments, “At Hörmann our aim is to provide a loading solution suitable for every situation and environment, and to find ways to help streamline processes for more efficient workflows. The HTLV4 dock leveller is an update to our successful HTVL3 model and just another example of how we have used our expertise to create an innovative solution to what is a growing issue within the logistics sector. Whilst there are other products on the market that facilitate the loading and unloading of different sized vehicles, Hörmann is the only manufacturer to offer a product that has been designed specifically for this purpose.

Not only does the HTLV4 continue to offer maximum flexibility, but it also ensures that operators can extend their loading capacity in terms of performance, whilst not compromising the safety of their workforce.“

Lithium Battery Power for Cleaning Machines

Posted on by Keith McKinley

Battery technology for use within the cleaning industry has not significantly improved over the last 40 years. Until now. Three years ago, a 36V Lithium high capacity option was considered bespoke and very expensive compared to 24/48V versions, which were primarily developed for the forklift market.

Since then, Lincoln Cleaning Technology (LCT) has worked extensively with their battery supplier, Battery Service Hub (BSH), to develop an innovative 36V Lithium battery to fit their ATS50BE combination sweeper scrubber. This machine had already proved a popular alternative to LPG and diesel machines of a similar size, especially with companies keen to reduce their carbon footprint.

The idea was first discussed when one of LCT’s customers, a national distribution company, became frustrated with conventional lead acid battery technology when visiting their warehouses around the UK to find cleaning machines parked in a corner with a battery that hadn’t been charged or maintained and which subsequently needed replacing after only a couple of years.

Traditional batteries have an average life expectancy of three years, depending on the number of charges and discharges. Charging a traditional battery from 80% discharged takes 10-12 hours, with any deviation potentially causing damage. With current cleaning regimes within many industrial buildings, often more than one machine is therefore required to cope with the recharging downtime. Lithium, however, allows opportunity charging without causing any damage to or shortening the life of the battery – and the operator does not have to maintain it.

MHE Manager at Culina Asset Management, Andy Miszkiel, is delighted, saying “We find Lithium the ideal fuel for a cleaning machine due to the way they are used operationally. They have short charging windows without having to take the machine out of operation for extended periods, as we do with lead acid.”

Cleaning machines

Director at BSH, Andy Riddle, explains “Because of the quick recharge time from (4 hours from 90% discharge), they would not be without a machine if it was needed outside of the usual cleaning window. The faster recharge time can mean that fewer machines are required, saving additional labour cost, capital outlay and storage space.”

LCT’s Sales Director, Simon Jackson, added “The cost of Lithium over the last three years has come down to a commercially viable level, allowing us to offer extended hire terms to offset the cost difference, delivering a robust commercial and operational solution for our customers.”

With 3,000 charging cycles, shorter charging time (50%-60% faster), no hazardous gases when charging and no requirement for diesel of LPG, the 36V Lithium battery provides flexibility and creates an opportunity for cost savings in warehouses and distribution centres in areas such as electricity consumption and maintenance.

Lithium Battery Power for Cleaning Machines

Posted on by David Priestman

Battery technology for use within the cleaning industry has not significantly improved over the last 40 years. Until now. Three years ago, a 36V Lithium high capacity option was considered bespoke and very expensive compared to 24/48V versions, which were primarily developed for the forklift market.

Since then, Lincoln Cleaning Technology (LCT) has worked extensively with their battery supplier, Battery Service Hub (BSH), to develop an innovative 36V Lithium battery to fit their ATS50BE combination sweeper scrubber. This machine had already proved a popular alternative to LPG and diesel machines of a similar size, especially with companies keen to reduce their carbon footprint.

The idea was first discussed when one of LCT’s customers, a national distribution company, became frustrated with conventional lead acid battery technology when visiting their warehouses around the UK to find cleaning machines parked in a corner with a battery that hadn’t been charged or maintained and which subsequently needed replacing after only a couple of years.

Traditional batteries have an average life expectancy of three years, depending on the number of charges and discharges. Charging a traditional battery from 80% discharged takes 10-12 hours, with any deviation potentially causing damage. With current cleaning regimes within many industrial buildings, often more than one machine is therefore required to cope with the recharging downtime. Lithium, however, allows opportunity charging without causing any damage to or shortening the life of the battery – and the operator does not have to maintain it.

MHE Manager at Culina Asset Management, Andy Miszkiel, is delighted, saying “We find Lithium the ideal fuel for a cleaning machine due to the way they are used operationally. They have short charging windows without having to take the machine out of operation for extended periods, as we do with lead acid.”

Cleaning machines

Director at BSH, Andy Riddle, explains “Because of the quick recharge time from (4 hours from 90% discharge), they would not be without a machine if it was needed outside of the usual cleaning window. The faster recharge time can mean that fewer machines are required, saving additional labour cost, capital outlay and storage space.”

LCT’s Sales Director, Simon Jackson, added “The cost of Lithium over the last three years has come down to a commercially viable level, allowing us to offer extended hire terms to offset the cost difference, delivering a robust commercial and operational solution for our customers.”

With 3,000 charging cycles, shorter charging time (50%-60% faster), no hazardous gases when charging and no requirement for diesel of LPG, the 36V Lithium battery provides flexibility and creates an opportunity for cost savings in warehouses and distribution centres in areas such as electricity consumption and maintenance.

Fifth Red Dot for Mitsubishi Forklift Trucks

Posted on by Keith McKinley

The EDiA XL electric counterbalance from Mitsubishi Forklift Trucks has picked up its second honour in recent months after being named winner of a Red Dot design award for 2023.

This latest accolade means the entire current EDiA range: the 1.4–2.0-tonne EDiA EM, the 2.5–3.5-tonne EDiA EX, and the 4.0–5.5-tonne EDiA XL, have all been granted use of the famous Red Dot. A much sought-after mark, it has become an internationally recognised symbol of outstanding design over its 60+ year history, signifying excellence in aesthetics, functionality, or innovation.
A truly next-generation forklift, EDiA XL is a step forward for what is possible with electric trucks, offering performance and productivity beyond IC engine models thanks to cutting-edge developments such as AutoBoost and Adaptive Lit Control, combined with the green, efficient benefits of electricity. The Red Dot jury was highly impressed by EDiA XL’s clean and modern design and outstanding ergonomics, creating an incredibly driver-focused truck.

In fact, ergonomics has been a key feature of all the EDiA wins, highlighting Mitsubishi Forklift Truck’s commitment to ensuring operators always remain at their most comfortable, even through the longest shifts.

EDiA EX was a winner in 2015 thanks to its pioneering features, such as the Sensitive Drive System, excellent all-round visibility, and fluid, intuitive operation. 360-degree steering on the EDiA EM and its outstanding adaptation to different loads and driving conditions impressed the jury in 2019 when it gained a Red Dot of its own. And this addition to EDiA XL’s growing trophy cabinet follows October’s win at the UK Material Handling awards where it took home the title in the Environment category thanks to a blend of unique technology, class-leading performance, and quiet, emission-free operation.

Mitsubishi Forklift Trucks is a brand of Mitsubishi Logisnext Co. Ltd. (ML) who design, manufacture, sell and distribute a comprehensive range of high-quality, innovative warehouse equipment, IC/ electric counterbalance forklifts and AGV solutions. With 11,000 employees and total sales of around £2,777 million GBP (As of March 2022), ML is the world’s fourth-largest industrial truck manufacturer.

The equipment supplied for European materials handling solutions in logistics and warehousing are designed and produced at the group’s production facilities in Sweden, Spain, Finland, China and Japan. Consequently, our spread of customers are involved in storage and distribution warehousing (Raw material and finished goods) as well as manufacturing with interests that include the production of food & beverages, pharmaceuticals, consumer goods, metal & automotive and the building industry.

Subscribe

Get notified about New Episodes of our Podcast, New Magazine Issues and stay updated with our Weekly Newsletter.