Newest electric forklifts fly out the door

'Optimal security and an attractive workplace'

Did you know that the most commonly used forklifts are those with load capacities between 1.0 and 2.0 tons? And that the Linde E12-E20 is the best-selling forklift series in this segment? With 26 new three- and four-wheel models within this weight class, Linde Material Handling (MH) is replacing its previous series of electric forklifts, offering optimum safety, maneuverability and ergonomics. The introduction took place at the end of November and orders have been pouring in ever since. 

"We notice a lot of enthusiasm and that is not surprising, because the new models offer an awful lot of possibilities and novelties," says Tino van Essen, product specialist at Motrac, the only official importer in the Netherlands.

Whoever thinks of safety thinks of Motrac. The E and Xi series therefore include a growing number of standard and optional features that increase the safety of the driver and his working environment. Tilting accidents, for example, are prevented with the standard built-in assist system that automatically adjusts the lifting and tilting functions to the load weight. And the Linde Reverse Assist Radar is the latest safety assistance that recognizes moving and stationary objects behind the truck, upon which it very quickly brakes the truck to a stop in case of danger. And the AI-based Linde cameras can even distinguish people from objects and trigger a speed reduction if necessary.

Tender Defense

Motrac is known for its ability to completely customize a truck. Thanks to the many options, the vehicle is completely tailored to the intended application. It led to Motrac recently being awarded a tender by the Ministry of Defense, in which service and the right price-quality ratio also weighed heavily. In the coming years, nearly seven hundred Linde lift and warehouse trucks will be delivered to this ministry, a large part of which will consist of the new E and Xi models.

Unique turning radius

The four-wheelers of both series are equipped with a combi axle: "This describes the turn, so to speak, in advance, making the turning circle as compact as that of a three-wheeler." Very practical is the fact that with the E Series, drivers can switch between lead-acid and lithium-ion batteries, as well as continue to use their existing batteries. In addition, the electric models are designed to use fuel cells. Van Essen adds: "Unique is the way Linde manufactures its cabs. It is similar to the comfort offered by a car."

E Series

Indeed, in the fourteen models of the updated Linde E14 to E20 electric forklifts, ergonomics have been optimized to perfection. The trucks also distinguish themselves in durability. They are designed to last more than twenty thousand running hours, or one million kilometers. "Moreover, by applying slimmer styles, upward and forward visibility has been improved, contributing to safety. Serviceability has also improved. So less downtime and maintenance. For example, our trucks consume only a quarter of the oil compared to other brands."

Xi Series

Incorporating the battery in the 12 Xi models has created a spacious step and generous footwell. Optional is the Linde Steer Control, which replaces the classic steering wheel with a mini steering wheel or joystick. "Younger drivers in particular love this, because you can compare it to a game controller, which they are often familiar with," says Linde. The data of the energy requirements of both the truck and the loader is completely transparent to users. "Én the Xi series offers a footplate that is a whopping 120 millimeters larger than that of our new E model. There is also a lot of space between the seat and the roof, which is of course very pleasant for us tall northern Europeans," Van Essen concludes.