AN ALL-electric empty container handler is being billed as the latest step by Kalmar towards its vision of offering an electric version of every product in its portfolio by 2021.
The all-electric machine is the latest addition to Kalmar’s Eco Range, which already includes the Kalmar Eco Reachstacker with a fuel-saving guarantee.
In addition, Kalmar has already launched fully electric versions of its light and medium forklift trucks, Kalmar Ottawa terminal tractors, shuttle and straddle carriers, automated guided vehicles and yard cranes.
Based on the Kalmar ECG90-180 medium electric forklift, the new machine is designed to help customers cut overall fuel costs and comply with increasingly strict airborne and noise emissions standards without compromising performance. It can stack containers up to four high and is available with a choice of battery technologies.
With fewer moving parts and lower rates of wear and tear than a diesel-powered machine, the Kalmar electric empty container handler is also simpler and more cost-effective to maintain.
In terms of performance, the electric driveline provides full torque immediately and is smoother to operate than a diesel driveline, making operating cycles shorter and increasing the potential number of container moves per hour. Fully charged, the battery has enough power to last a whole shift.
“We know that operational cycles differ from customer to customer, so we’re pleased to be able to offer a choice between lead-acid and lithium-ion battery technologies to allow customers to specify the option that best fits their requirements,” Stefan Hultqvist, vice president forklifts, Kalmar said.
