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Tag: electric trucks

Sustainable Practices in Logistics

Posted on by David Priestman

The logistics sector is actively seeking sustainable solutions to environmental challenges. But what are the real examples of sustainable logistics services solutions? The use of battery electric vehicles (BEV) and electric trailers is an innovative step in this direction. Take a look at the first available testing period of a fully electric truck and trailer done in collaboration between Nestle, Girteka, Volo, Schmitz Cargobull, and BP Pulse.

The Role of BEV and Electric Trailers in Sustainable Transport

In our journey towards sustainable logistics, the adoption of battery electric vehicles (BEV) and electric trailers is one the most mentioned solutions. “As today’s world addresses main challenges, one of them especially touches the logistics – it is decarbonization. And here is where Battery Electric Vehicles supported by electric trailers can be one of the solutions,” summarizes Viktorija Terekė, Head of Sustainability. Recent joint activity from Nestle, Girteka, Volvo, Schmitz Cargobull, and BP Pulse, was aiming and testing fully electric solutions for short deliveries.

This initiative represents a crucial step toward zero-emission logistics, emphasizing the broader impact of leaders’ efforts on the environment. As highlighted by Harry Baxter, EV Fleet Sales Driector for BP Pulse in Europe, ” In terms of e-mobility being a solution then, so we see that approximately 25% of emissions globally are from transportation. And the fact that electric vehicles have zero tailpipe emissions makes it an obvious choice.”

However, the discussion is still ongoing where BEV and how can be used. As the discussion is maintained many companies are already testing and trying to find a common understanding and solution that will combine customer needs, manufacturers possibilities, infrastructure capabilities and availability, and logistics companies to conduct and combine all relevant stakeholders. “The path to decarbonization cannot be walked alone. It necessitates an unprecedented level of collaboration,” highlighted by Viktorija Terekė.

Sustainable Electric VehicleAddressing Challenges and Advancing Solutions

Implementing battery electric vehicles (BEV) and electric trailers comes with its set of challenges, particularly around infrastructure and technology. During the test as well as after the discussion is still ongoing. A critical aspect of this transition is infrastructure. The need for charging stations and maintenance facilities for electric and alternative fuel vehicles is immediate.

Meanwhile, Mathias Fleischer, Supply Chain Director from Nestle points out the progress and hurdles in electrical transport: ” Electrical transport has come a huge way when you look from years ago till today because now today we can run ranges up to 250 and 300 kilometres which is much better like it has been years before. Still, the charging facilities we need to improve. We need to find the way how we do the optimal charging and how we do the optimal payload on this one.”

However taking into consideration the structure of today’s heavy goods transportation, there is hope. “We know that if you look at all the goods in Europe, 45% are traveling less than 300km per day. This is also a range that we easily can handle today without charging. If you then charge, you will have a significantly longer range. That means that we have examples of our trucks running up to 640km per day, with some top-up charging during the day. Charging takes 90 minutes from 0 to 80%, but in many cases, you only charge from 30 to 80% during the day. And that means that you can do it during a scheduled break of 45 minutes,” informs Stefan Widlund, Electromobility Director at Volvo Trucks.

“The path to an expansive and efficient EV charging network is paved with collaboration—spanning industries, innovators, and policymakers. Through strategic partnerships, like this, we are tackling the immediate need for more charging stations. We’re building out a big network where that is high power charging. The trucks with trailers at a 40-ton size can pull through these bays. There’s no uncoupling of those trailers. You’re not adding to that downtime, but having to uncouple a trailer, leaving in an unsecured position. So it makes the operations much smoother and safer. And that network means that truck operators are flexible as well to travel and know there’s charging available. The second point then would be convenience. So having charges in convenient locations, but also having convenient options for drivers,” explains Baxter, BP Pulse.

Envisioning the Future of Sustainable Transport

The collaborative effort in utilizing battery electric vehicles (BEV) and electric trailers is not just about addressing today’s challenges, that is not only the topic of infrastructure but also the capabilities of today’s solution and cost-oriented solution. “Currently, costs of electromobility are very much dependent on the cost of batteries. The biggest question mark for any business case is how much I have to invest versus what is the outcome. If shippers are not ready to pay more because goods are transported in an electric reefer, then it gets critical. Pay-off needs to come by the operation itself. That’s why we have decided to reduce the battery capacity. It can safely guarantee operations for a minimum of five hours, but it doesn’t cost as much as you have a bigger battery pack that also reduces payload, so where the economy is very much critical,” explains Boris Billich, CSO from Schmitz Cargobull.

Despite challenges, when facing it as a partnership, as it was with this case, BEV and E-trailers can be one of the solutions to achieve ambitious goals. “Electric trucks have a lot of advantages, a lot of positive things. You don’t have the diesel, you don’t have the CO2, and the noise is much less than it has been before. So it’s a no-brainer once we get the technology into place. That is the best way how we can move forward from here. That’s important,” summarize Fleischer, Nestle.

The collaboration with partners such as Nestle, Volvo, Schmitz Cargobull, BP Pulse, and Girteka in this project is invaluable. First and foremost, the collective action and shared commitment among these diverse yet synergistic partners underscore the necessity to act together.

“Open dialogue is fundamental in this collaboration. It ensures that all parties, from a global food and beverage leader like Nestle to an automotive and trucking pioneer like Volvo, and from a trailer manufacturing expert like Schmitz Cargobull to energy specialists like BP Pulse and logistics providers, are on the same page,” ends Viktorija Tereke.

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Girteka Group Launches Educational Campaign on Sustainability

Posted on by Will Priestman

Today’s main challenge in the logistics and transport sectors is decarbonisation. Electric trucks, intermodal transport, hydrogen powered vehicles, and biofuels are the most common solutions currently being discussed in terms of tackling the European Union’s (EU) ambitious emission reduction targets. However, understanding the discussion requires deep knowledge of details and technicalities and hard to understand by a non-expertise audience. Today’s available content is fragmented and lacks an overall holistic perspective on what can be achieved and how, who will stand to gain and who will end up losing in the drastic transition to Net Zero by 2050. Most importantly, what opportunities does today’s goal of decarbonisation of road transport present in terms of sustainable solutions for companies.

Exploring Pathways to Sustainability

Girteka, a road transport company, providing services in the logistics of temperature controlled (food & `beverages, pharma products) and high-value cargo in Europe, is launching an educational initiative to bring forward valuable insights and information about the decarbonization of road freight transport. The idea behind this campaign is to convey the message that the activities and direction the EU is heading toward should be practical, realistic, and beneficial for all stakeholders within the entire supply chain in the long term, as well as for the communities in which we work and live.

In the upcoming weeks, through various digital channels, Girteka will be sharing insights on battery-electric heavy-goods vehicles, their usage, drivers’ experiences, and challenges that many businesses are facing today when it comes to achieving their sustainability goals. The campaign will also explore topics related to intermodal rail transport – what is possible today and what plans have been put into place to improve the infrastructure? Later on, Girteka will analyse the possibilities of reducing emissions from existing assets through the implementation of solutions like HVO100 or HVO mass balancing. Also as final part the initiative will also focus on the new requirements of the Corporate Sustainability Reporting Directive (CSRD) in terms of reporting emissions from transport, which can be easily incorporated into the Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) approach.

“Today, everyone talks about sustainability. We all have high ambitions, yet we are still struggling to understand how we are going to achieve them. Our campaign aims to provide a  clearer and more understandable view of the current situation: what  options are available today and what would be the consequences of implementing those options for every stakeholder, starting from road transportation companies like us, through manufacturers and maintenance/infrastructure providers up to the end customers,” says Tomasz Weber, Head of Corporate Communications for Girteka Group.

Sustainability in the Digital Age

Girteka’s sustainability campaign will consist of several activities and will primarily be presented in digital channels. Starting with dedicated landing pages providing information about sustainable solutions available today, to in-depth articles and insights analysing infrastructure, networks, key roadblocks, and experiences gained so far, to discussions with experts in the form of podcasts, interviews, and video case studies.

“Our goal is to foster a common understanding before discussing specific approaches and ways to achieve carbon neutrality by 2050 in Europe. There is a lot of hard-to-understand information and stereotypical thinking when talking about sustainability. Yet we need to be aware that today’s decarbonization goals are not solely the responsibility of transport companies. This is a global challenge, where cooperation is needed to achieve those very ambitious goals,” emphasizes Viktorija Terekė, Head of Sustainability at Girteka.

As today’s discussions on this topic mainly occurs online and through social networks, Girteka’s campaign on sustainability will present all the relevant information, latest insights as well as expert discussions in the digital landscape. This includes LinkedIn, Facebook and X fan pages, where users will be able to follow and stay updated, as well as be properly informed about sustainable transport solutions.

The goal is not only to provide information, but to cultivate a common understanding and a platform for discussion where every stakeholder is involved. Central to this campaign is the idea that sustainability in logistics is a multifaceted challenge that necessitates a holistic, informed approach. This campaign will serve as an open invitation for all players in the logistics field to embrace sustainability not just as a corporate responsibility, but as a shared mindset among businesses,  customers, producers, service providers, and individuals alike.

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Electric Trucks Market Booming, says Volvo

Posted on by David Priestman

Volvo Trucks has now sold more than 4,300 electric trucks globally in more than 38 countries, while in Europe it is leading the way with a 32 per cent share of the market for heavy electric CVs/lorries. In 2022, Europe’s heavy electric CV market grew by 200 per cent to 1,041 units, with Volvo setting the pace.

Roger Alm, President of Volvo Trucks, says: “We are determined to lead the electric truck transformation and our market leading position in 2022, not only in Europe, but also in North America, is proof that we are doing just that. Although the market for electric trucks is still small compared to the traditional diesel variants, the trend is clear: many of our customers are now starting their own shift to electric. We intend to be the catalyst for this transition and aim for 50 per cent of our global sales of new trucks to be electric in 2030.”

Since Volvo Trucks started production of fully electric CVs in 2019, the company has sold more than 4,300 electric trucks/lorries in more than 38 countries around the world. Volvo currently offers the industry’s broadest product line-up of electric models in series production, catering to a very wide variety of operational domains both in and between cities.

“We now have a product portfolio that can cover most types of transportation for all kinds of customers,” adds Alm. “Looking at the goods flow patterns in Europe, it’s clearly possible to electrify nearly half of all those transport operations with our line-up of electric lorries. We see it as our mission to support our customers in making that happen.”

The 10 largest markets for electric lorries, based on number of registrations ≥16 tonnes, in Europe are:

1. Germany – 198
2. Sweden – 169
3. Norway – 150
4. France – 118
5. Switzerland – 103
6. UK – 101
7. Netherlands – 89
8. Spain – 79
9. Denmark – 48
10. Belgium – 17

The Volvo market share and overall growth data referenced for heavy electric CVs/lorries in Europe includes content supplied by IHS Markit.

Doosan Launches Heavy-lifting Electric Trucks

Posted on by David Priestman

Doosan, manufacturer of robust high-performance forklift trucks, has launched two new ranges of high capacity electric counterbalance forklift trucks within the NXE Series, providing industrial users with a wide choice of zero-emission, low-noise level, environmentally friendly trucks capable of tackling heavy duty tasks. Both ranges have a compact new design for greater manoeuvrability in tight spaces and are built to Doosan’s exacting standards on durability and robust, reliable performance.

The powerful B80NS
Available in capacities from 8.0 to 10.0 tons, businesses across a broad spectrum of industry – from manufacturing, engineering, and foundries, to building supplies, transport and warehousing – will benefit from the improved capability, power and performance of Doosan’s latest heavy-lifting B80NS electric trucks. The versatility of electric power is now available in a durable and reliable heavy-lifting vehicle, built for working long-shifts in arduous conditions, making it a viable alternative to increasingly regulated IC Engine equivalents – all of which helps to save time and costs.

For those businesses requiring a truck for light to medium duties, Doosan has introduced a low-cost electric truck specified for the task.

The cost-efficient B60NX
The B60NX ‘value’ range, with three models covering a capacity range from 6.0 – 8.0 ton, offers the simple clean performance of electric power in a series of competitively priced high-capacity models – giving occasional users a reliable ‘buy new’ alternative to purchasing a second-hand or reconditioned forklift truck. Designed for light to medium duties, the B60NX range offers all that’s needed to get the job done – without needing to spend large. These compact zero-emission trucks are clean and quiet in operation, delivering safe, reliable performance exactly when it’s needed.

Extra Durable
Durability for outside duty is catered for in both ranges with IP65 rated controllers and motors, offering maximum resilience to water and dust. Also included as standard is an industry leading sealed, oil-cooled disc brake system, which is virtually maintenance free and lasts up to five times longer when compared to conventional shoe brakes. The sealed units protect against outside elements such as dirt, water and grit, ensuring top-rate braking performance for enhanced safety and increased productivity. With zero emissions, low noise levels and a reduced total cost of ownership (TCO), the new models across both ranges will appeal to businesses looking to boost environmental performance, while reducing costs.

Enhanced Productivity
A major productivity-boosting feature across the range is a compact design and tighter turning radius, giving a strong competitive edge over the average diesel truck of the same capacity. Smooth and responsive acceleration are assured with the 96V or 80V AC drive system, where a single or dual, powerful motor gives the unbeatable combination of power, performance and functionality. The all-round efficiency provided promises to boost productivity inside and outside the factory or warehouse.

Safety first
Doosan places a strong emphasis on safety in the design of their trucks, prioritising all-around visibility. The clear-view overhead guard and lower seat position provides 360 degrees of visibility. A prominent safety feature included as standard is the Automatic Speed Control function which adjusts the travel speed for safer cornering.

Stronger Ergonomics
The compact new design is combined with good ergonomics – taking safety, driver comfort, ease of maintenance and productivity fully into account. The spacious cab is designed for operator comfort and to reduce fatigue, with a fully adjustable premium Grammer seat as standard and excellent all-round visibility for safer manoeuvring with greater awareness. Other features included are an adjustable steering column, a low seat position for easy access and plenty of legroom. Everything a driver needs for maximum comfort during long shifts. Further, optional features within the cab include: MP3 radio player, HVAC integrated heating/cooling/ventilation system and a fingertip console with two-axis cross levers or ergonomic fingertip control.

Easy Maintenance
The new design takes ease of maintenance into account too. A tiltable cab (optional) on the B80NS provides simple, clear access to core components, along with improved accessibility to the controller and electric components, and a fast detachable backplate facilitates a swift battery change for multi-shift operations. The B60NX series comes with a full-opening side door, which makes battery replacement simple and straightforward using a pallet truck.

The new Doosan B60NX and B80NS ranges offer everything a business needs to feel confident in making the transition to using electric powered trucks for the heaviest of lifting duties.
Jan Droogendijk, Marketing Supervisor, Doosan Industrial Vehicles, says: “Companies that are currently considering contracts on high capacity IC Engine trucks should at least be looking at the possibility of switching to electric powered forklifts as a way of reducing their long term costs, improving safety and cutting their carbon footprint. Electric trucks have come a really long way in the past few years and are now, with these new additions, a highly viable alternative to IC Engine trucks for most applications.”

Automated Lorry Pilot Project in Tallinn

Posted on by David Priestman

A pilot project for highly automated lorry and electric container logistics is being launched at the HHLA TK Estonia terminal in Tallinn in partnership with HHLA International. HHLA Next, Hamburger Hafen und Logistik AG’s innovation unit, is investing in Munich-based start-up FERNRIDE.  The goal of the project is to develop solutions for the gradual automation of trucks within live operations.

HHLA Next is investing in FERNRIDE’s innovative solution to drive forward automation and sustainability in logistics and to address the lack of truck drivers. En route to automated transport logistics, the unique approach of FERNRIDE lies in the gradually increasing autonomy of trucks and tractor units. The combination of autonomous driving technology of the vehicles and human expertise in remote operation already offers a reliable service available now in live operations. This creates an immediate added value and speeds up the journey towards more sustainable logistics.

Simone Lode, Managing Director of HHLA Next: “We at HHLA Next invest in digital and sustainable business models in maritime logistics. We see great potential in autonomous driving solutions, also because of the current lack of truck drivers. With FERNRIDE, we are investing in a company that has already implemented a viable solution with a partner network of respected companies from industry and logistics with very good results. In addition, the project highlights our focus on sustainable logistics.”

Hendrik Kramer, CEO FERNRIDE: “HHLA is the perfect partner to use our platform for autonomous electric trucking in ports. The advantages of remote control can already be actively used by a part of the workforce within ports. With our solution, truck drivers can now also benefit. HHLA shares our ambition to scale this technology internationally, and the port in Tallinn offers ideal conditions in which to lay the foundation for this.”

HHLA Next is providing the new portfolio company with access to subsidiaries in the HHLA Group. A pilot project will start in early 2023 at the HHLA TK Estonia terminal in Tallinn – the first FERNRIDE project at a container terminal. The goal of the project is to determine the technology’s operational reliability in automated container handling and to validate the technology’s viability for future business opportunities.
Philip Sweens, Managing Director of HHLA International: “This partnership with FERNRIDE as part of the pilot project in Tallinn will help us to jointly explore new opportunities and to create workflows at our international terminals that are future-oriented and sustainable. We look forward to our collaboration with FERNRIDE and hope this project will be the beginning of a long partnership.”

Martin Isik, CCO FERNRIDE: “With our joint project during ongoing, live operations, we are creating the basis for series development and the adaptation of our solution to container logistics. We will use our gradual automation approach to demonstrate the high value proposition of the FERNRIDE platform for customers at container terminals. Thanks to HHLA International, we have also found the ideal partner for rapid scaling in the European region.”

The technology start-up FERNRIDE, which has approximately 100 employees, equips trucks and tractor units with sensors and cameras so that they can be remote-controlled via mobile networks. Teleoperators at a computer workstation that resembles a vehicle cockpit take remote control of the vehicles. The teleoperator receives and sends targeted commands in real time by controlling the gas pedal, brakes, steering wheel and joystick. FERNRIDE’s algorithms can be further trained using data from the real-life operation in order to roll out additional autonomous functions.

Truck drivers can be more flexibly deployed through the use of this new technology, which has a positive impact on operating procedures. In addition, the option to work remotely increases both the attractiveness of the job profile and safety on the respective premises.

Electric Trucks used for Container Transport

Posted on by David Priestman

Skaraslättens Transport is Sweden’s biggest provider of container transport on the roads, hauling 850-900 containers daily to all Swedish container ports. The lion share goes to the Port of Gothenburg, and today the haulage company deployed two electric trucks on container flows to the port – with a third truck joining them shortly.

“We don’t want to be standing on the side-line when the transition takes place – we want to be leading the way, and we’re also seeing our customers increasingly requesting sustainable transport operations. With that in mind, this was a pretty easy decision to make,” says Johan Söderström, CCO at Skaraslättens Transport.

Climate-smart – but an economic challenge

Even though electrical power is a superior alternative with regard to the carbon footprint, it is not an investment to be made without meticulous planning. Heavy electric trucks have different properties and are relatively expensive compared with their fossil equivalents.

“Economically, it’s a challenge, and it’s an investment with a longer payback time. So customers that want to use our electric trucks for their transport needs are urged to sign longer agreements with us, which is something we find that they understand. People are prepared to take a broader view and think outside the box,” says Johan Söderström.

The new vehicles do of course also have limitations in terms of their range. It’s a matter of finding the right flows and transport patterns, close to easily accessible charging infrastructure. During the night, the vehicles will be charged at the port’s vehicle terminal, which is operated by Logent Ports & Terminals.

The Port of Gothenburg also has public charging facilities already available in the middle of the port. Cirkle K’s station at Vädermotet has six chargers for heavy trucks each with charging power of 360 kW. In 2023, additional public charging stations will become available in the central areas of the port.

“It provides peace of mind to have public charging in the port, to supplement our depot-based charging. We’ll probably need to have some top-up charging capacity, but it’s difficult to say how much right now. There’s only one way to find out exactly how it’s going to work in practice, and that’s to dive in and give it a go. We’re now really full of anticipation, and it will be great to be able to show Gothenburg our new vehicles,” says Johan Söderström.

Launch pad for broader development

Skaraslättens’ three electric trucks represent an important milestone for the Port of Gothenburg, yet at the same time they are just the beginning of a development that will accelerate during 2023, with more haulage companies and freight forwarders preparing to deploy electric heavy trucks. DFDS is one example, as they will be deploying many of the more than 120 electric heavy trucks they have on order in flows at the Port of Gothenburg later this year. This is a rapid development, which the Gothenburg Port Authority welcomes and wants to continue to support.

“It’s really great to see the transition happening here and now. From the port’s perspective, it’s important that we continue to lower the thresholds for those wanting to make the transition to a climate-smarter transport system,” says Elvir Dzanic, CEO at the Gothenburg Port Authority.

2021 year saw the launch of the Tranzero Initiative project to increase the rate of transition in the transport sector, with a special focus on land-based transport to and from the port. The project is a collaboration between the Gothenburg Port Authority, the Volvo Group, Scania and Stena Line. In 2023, additional charging infrastructure will be available, and two hydrogen stations are to be built for heavy trucks. Electric heavy trucks already have priority in many port terminals, and additional Tranzero Initiatives are being prepared at the port to offer greater incentives and speed up the transition.

Everything. Except Emissions

Posted on by David Priestman

A new electric truck in the 3.5 to 5-tonne sector promises efficient results both indoors and outdoors. Paul Hamblin hears about it.

“A bit of colour in your workplace routine, which can sometimes be autumnal grey,” said Gerald Strugg, STILL GmbH Product Manager, E-trucks. Via a slick online press conference, he was referring to the latest model of the STILL RX 60 electric forklift, an eye-catching all-rounder which offers what has been a tricky deliverable in the electric space, a truck marketed to be effective
both indoors and outdoors. “It offers everything except exhaust gases,” he quipped.

The 3.5 to 5-tonne model aims to build on the RX 60 series’ achievements in agility, manoeuvrability and high driving comfort. The compact 80 Volt electric forklift truck offers, says the company, outstanding handling performance and high availability. STILL says it is opening up a new perspective for even more companies when it comes to designing their truck fleet, whether in terms of performance, cost, environmental compatibility or efficiency of use.

This year is a special one for the Hamburg-based company founded in 1920 by Hans Still and it is making much of the switch to electric power. Using resources optimally and efficiently is inherent to its DNA. Ever since the company was founded 100 years ago everything has revolved around the innovative combination of electrical energy and mobility – as well as a pioneering spirit and
passion for progress with a clear eye for current market requirements. In the post-war period it was the lack of fuel combined with the growing mobility of the economy that brought great success – first in 1946 with the electric cart EK 2000 and only a few years later with the first STILL electric forklift, the EGS 1000. Numerous successful forklift truck series later, it is still the clear focus on customer and industry needs that is at the centre of this latest product development: powerful performance and ergonomics combined with high energy efficiency and the possibility of implementing zero emissions in internal logistics. It’s a logic that makes the power pack the very heart of the RX 60-35/50.

Power for any application

Seven different vehicle variants are available to customers with a load centre of 500 mm as standard, or 600 mm upon request. A high-performance variant is available in all weight classes,
which excels in demanding application profiles with even more handling capacity, more power and acceleration. CSO/Member Management Board at STILL GmbH, Thomas A Fischer told
me that the truck will be marketed to multiple sectors. “We have a wide range – automotive, chemical, beverage, retail, indeed anywhere with a need to lift heavy loads.”

Crucially, both lead acid batteries and lithium-ion technology are available, and STILL says it has firm evidence of their effectiveness. As early as 2019, an independent test certified that the
smaller version of the new series, the RX 60-25 (carrying 2.5 tonnes), ranked among the best in direct electric forklift truck competition, offering handling performance and gradeability on a par
with a comparable diesel forklift truck. STILL engineers have now transferred this successful drive concept to the 5-tonne model. This is made possible by two powerful encapsulated three-phase
drive motors with active cooling in the front axle. In the high performance version, the two 11 kW motors provide even more power. They increase the drive motor output by 46 percent compared to the predecessor. As both motors are driven even at full steering angle, the truck is particularly manoeuvrable. Demand-driven active cooling ensures high thermal stability even at maximum handling performance. Robust and maintenance-free fans cool the encapsulated components of the power electronics as well as the lift and drive motors via temperature control, all without filters.

Thanks to its low consumption and a battery capacity of 930 Ah (59.5 kWh), or up to 118.4 kWh in the Li-Ion version of the RX 60-50, STILL says the power pack can easily cope with two shifts
in a row without interim charging. To change the battery, the now proven lateral battery door opens up new perspectives – quite literally. The 4 mm thick steel door of the RX 60-35/50 can now also be easily opened 180 degrees to the rear, and the battery can be changed by just one person using an electric pallet truck, saving space, time, energy and resources. Optionally, an integrated built-in charger provides even more flexibility for quick and easy interim charging during work.

It’s important to offer choice to customers, says Thomas Fischer. “We have a good portfolio and we offer both lead-acid and lithium options. We see a clear customer trend towards li-ion, though,” he points out. He predicts that market-share of electric trucks will be “over 50% in 5-10 years”. Does he see a similar success curve for hydrogen-based fuel cell technology? “Fuel cell is not as economic, and particularly so if it is not subsidised. There are some big political discussions needed, as it could be impossible to develop more fully without Brussels subsidies,” he says.

Speed and ergonomics

Speed and stamina are also features. The RX 60 can hit a nippy 20 km/h, while time is saved (and safety preserved) with the quick start mode and an automatic spring-loaded parking brake if the driver steps out of the cab. Meanwhile, the intuitive on-board computer enables clear and convenient overview of all relevant performance functions and truck information. STILL designers have recognised the role of both ergonomics and enjoyment in maintaining employee engagement. The RX 60 stands out with its low front body and easy-access placement of controls and displays. The mast profiles designed for optimum visibility create an extra large field of vision around transported goods and past the mast.

The driver’s cab not only has 16 mm more headroom than its predecessor, its footwell is also particularly spacious. For a fatigue-free leg position for the driver, it is about one hand’s width wider than the predecessor and also offers sufficient freedom of movement for feet up to huge shoe sizes. For greater safety and comfort when getting on and off the vehicle, the enlarged step has an additional nonslip edge. The ergonomically shaped battery cover also provides comfort: even with the seat adjusted to the maximum rearward position, the calves do not touch it. The pedal position alleviates strain on the legs and allows an unimpeded movement between the accelerator and brake pedals.

On the wider business front, Chairman of Management Board, Henry Puhl suggests that the company has coped well with the unexpected rigours of 2020. “We created a safe working environment, we’ve stayed fully functional and we’re working with customers to feel secure in what we do.” Indeed, he strikes a note of optimism, which is a rare commodity in Europe as the much-feared second wave of the pandemic unfolds. “I want to spark some confidence,” he suggests. “We know a lot more about COVID now, we a know a lot more about how to handle it and we feel
connected to our customers – all of us have to work together to get through it.”

He admits to a double-digit percentage drop in orders caused by COVID, but counters that STILL will reap the benefits sown by the pandemic’s ‘winners’ within its customer sectors – led by intralogistics, driven by fast-growing ecommerce transactions. STILL’s message is that choosing the right forklift is nowadays about much more than brand and tonnage. Internal logistics systems matter, and the right energy choice plays a vital role. This can vary depending on the application profile and individual perspective – e.g. total operating costs, sustainability, digitalisation or service.

New Electric Piggyback Truck Launched

Posted on by David Priestman

Hiab, part of Cargotec, launches the MOFFETT E4 NX, its next generation eSeries of electric forklifts and the world’s first all electric 3-wheel drive truck mounted forklift. Inside the chassis of a MOFFETT M4, Hiab has constructed a zero-emission truck mounted forklift powered by lithium ion batteries with new controllers and the new HMI (Human Machine Interface) that displays battery capacity, machine performance and service information. The MOFFETT can be charged from a regular household socket or a 30 amp socket for faster charging, as well as from the truck in between deliveries.

The new MOFFETT eSeries, currently available in four E4 NX models with more being added, is not only beneficial to the environment as it has zero emissions, it is also much more comfortable and safer for the operator as it is virtually silent and has less vibrations than a diesel powered truck. The low noise means it can be operated without earplugs allowing the driver to both see and hear danger. It can also be operated at night-time and deliver the cargo inside warehouses.

The total cost of ownership is lower than the equivalent diesel model as it can be electrically charged and has reduced service costs. It is engineered with fewer moving parts, which reduces service time and spare parts costs.

“The MOFFETT eSeries is the natural choice for customers who need to enter low emissions zones, work at night or meet sustainability targets. However, as it’s cheaper to run, safer and more comfortable, we think it will prove popular with customers in a wide range of industries. We are certain that drivers will appreciate working in an exhaust free environment and being able to hear what is happening around them,” says Jann Hansen, Director, Sales & Product Business Management, Truck Mounted Forklift, Hiab.

The MOFFETT eSeries have in-built connectivity so that owners can access Hiab’s HiConnect™. HiConnect monitors over 100 machine parameters. Some are displayed on the HMI while the full range of data are available from the HiConnect web portal. Parameters range from battery capacity to delivery route and time, driver safety and service notifications.

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