(Photo: Toyota Material Handling Europe)

Toyota Material Handling Europe has secured another major design accolade for its next-generation Traigo_i forklift, strengthening the machine’s reputation as one of the most innovative and refined electric trucks on the market. The flagship lithium-ion model has been named a winner at the German Design Award 2026 in the Excellent Product Design – Industry category, adding to its Red Dot Design Award success in 2025.

The Traigo_i leads Toyota’s new Traigo48 counterbalanced range and has been engineered from the ground up around integrated lithium-ion technology. Its streamlined profile is inspired by the silhouette of a katana, with a dynamic frame line and sculpted cabin designed not only to create visual impact but to enhance comfort for operators working long shifts.

José Maria Gener, Vice President Sales & Marketing at Toyota Material Handling Europe, said the double recognition reflected the ambition behind the project. “We’re proud that our new electric counterbalanced forklift designed and built around lithium-ion: the Traigo_i earned not one, but two prestigious design awards, a testament to its innovation and excellence,” he said. He added that the truck was created to deliver productivity gains, cost reductions and “an unmatched driving experience”, describing it as “innovation with purpose”.

The German Design Awards, run by the German Design Council since 2012, are among the industry’s most respected honours, celebrating achievements that push boundaries in function, form and user experience. The jury praised the Traigo_i for its combination of cutting-edge performance and ergonomic design. Its Red Dot Award, meanwhile, places it among the world’s most acclaimed industrial products.

Designed specifically for lithium-ion operation, the Traigo_i’s compact integrated battery frees up space in the chassis, improving legroom and delivering a more comfortable driving position. The open-sided, vibration-insulated driver compartment provides a clear field of view and protection, while a simplified dashboard, small steering wheel and optional touchscreen aim to offer intuitive handling and boost productivity.

Key features include fast-charging integrated lithium-ion batteries, Toyota’s SyncoDrive system for energy-efficient performance, and a full-floating driver compartment with suspended dampers to reduce noise and vibration. Operators can also specify a customisable armrest with multiple control configurations and a multifunction display, as well as an optional wide-view glass roof.

Toyota says the dual awards reflect its Kaizen philosophy of continuous improvement, with the Traigo_i combining energy efficiency, operator-focused ergonomics and distinctive industrial design in a single package. The German Design Award ceremony will take place on 6 February 2026 in Frankfurt, coinciding with the city’s year as World Design Capital.