Lower voltage batteries result in a higher current for the same level of power and can overheat in intensive work cycles. Conversely, the 350V battery supports high productivity (in tonnes per hour moved) and applications with both intense peaks and continuous heavy-duty usage.

In this case, an electric truck is absolutely tough enough. The Hyster® J7.0-9.0XNL series also features tough drivetrains, simple engineering, longer service intervals, and components built to last the lifetime of the truck, minimising truck maintenance needs.

There is also another important myth to address – that “electric trucks overheat all the time”. The Hyster® J7.0-9.0XNL lift trucks are not only designed with a high voltage (and therefore low current) system that greatly reduces heat development, but also incorporates specially designed water-cooled motors and drive controllers to prevent this, while increasing the overall efficiency of the truck.  Battery monitoring systems are also included to keep a close eye on under and overcharging.

Hyster 8.0L side view (Image source: Hyster Europe)

A green option for yellow trucks

The Hyster® J7.0-9.0XNL series of electric lift trucks produce zero emissions. This is a clear benefit to those organisations aiming to improve environmental credentials.  Globally there is a move towards stricter legislation, and even total bans, on vehicles with IC engines. Organisations are therefore increasingly making the move to electric vehicles.

The ability to run and charge trucks internally without additional ventilation also provides a pollution-free alternative well suited to indoor/outdoor applications. The high controllability of electric trucks makes them an ideal option for working in confined areas, such as narrower aisle widths.

The Hyster® lithium-ion forklifts are also quieter, both when working and when idling, improving operator comfort but also helping ensure that outdoor operations in urban areas comply with noise level legislation, and don’t upset the neighbours!

It depends on the application

It is important to remember that not every solution is right for every application.

Lithium-ion powered electric trucks are a more expensive initial purchase, though they have a long working life and when matched with the right application will offer productivity gains that can offset the cost.

However, low hours and less intensive operations may find the economic benefits more limited. Likewise, operations with high hours and small fleets may find opportunity charging intrusive, and large fleets may struggle to meet peak power demand capacity for charging.

Hyster has the expertise, both in-house and through our trusted dealer network, to advise on the transition from ICE to electrics, the right charging strategies, and ultimately matching the right solution to the specific needs of the application.

Phil Ireland is Programme Leader 20/20 Platform at Hyster Europe.

HYSTER is one of the world's leading makers of forklift and warehousing trucks. With 70 years dedicated experience in the materials handling industry and an exclusive network of dealers, we believe we can provide lift truck users with a unique combination of quality products and after sales service.

Our aim is to ensure that your trucks are available when you need them, allowing you to concentrate on your core business.

We hope that you find our site interesting, and look forward to hearing your comments. 

HYSTER has been building lift trucks for over 70 years. The HYSTER story began in 1929 in the North American Lumber industry, with the supply of logging winches. The name HYSTER came from the cries of the workmen-"hoist'er".

The company then began to look for ways to improve general materials handling, and in 1934 built their first piece of mobile lifting equipment called a "cranemobile" which would later become known as the "karry krane".

The first HYSTER lift truck was built in 1935 and by the end of 1940's, HYSTER lift trucks, of various types could be found on ports and docksides, and loading timber yards throughout the U.S.A. and other parts of the world.

In the 1950s, HYSTER established its European headquarter in England, and then built its forklift manufacturing plants in the Netherlands, Scotland, Ireland and Italy, as well as in Australia. In late 1950s, HYSTER invented "Monotrol Pedal Technology" which controls both directions and acceleration. This technology was one of the most advanced technologies and has been used in forklift industry till now. With the developing of its business, HYSTER has built 14 manufacturing plants all over the world with a 16% world market share.

HYSTER Company is the first U.S. lift truck manufacturer to receive ISO9002 registration. The Testing Center which was built in 1960s in Portland is the biggest and best equipped lift truck testing center in the world. Today customers consider the word "HYSTER" and "lift truck" to be synonymous. We, HYSTER China with such a proud heritage will strive hard to make sure that doesn't change.

Shanghai HYSTER has been active in China for many years. Our commitment to serving our customers has led us to make a major investment in China. A totally new, award winning manufacturing and servicing facility became operational in 1999. Besides manufacturing a range of HYSTER products at this facility, the national HYSTER distribution and service network is managed from this centrally situated facility which is located in the Pudong, Shanghai industrial zone.

HYSTER China Headquarter is located in Jinqiao, Pudong Shanghai. The plant was formally opened on April 8th, 1999 with a 26,379m2 facility and over 100 employees. It adopts latest DFT (Demand Flow Technology) in its manufacturing and management system for 2-3 ton diesel trucks followed by one new range of 1.5-2.5 ton electric truck.

HYSTER China will use its worldwide resources to serve the domestic and multinational corporations in China.