Narrow Aisle Ends Production Of LPG-Powered Lift Trucks
Narrow Aisle, a manufacturer of Flexi articulated forklift trucks based in the West Midlands, has announced it is to halt production of LPG-powered Flexi models. Narrow Aisle managing director John Maguire said: “As a company, Narrow Aisle has pledged to operate in the most environmentally responsible way possible. Lithium-ion-powered trucks match the performance of LPG types but without the drawbacks of high fuel costs, noise and emissions, maintenance downtime and increasing legislation issues,” according to SHD Logistics
He added that the firm is delighted to be taking a lead within the sector with the announcement of the move towards eliminating LPG-powered trucks, and the advancement of electric drive and lithium-ion technology has led to a rethinking of the company’s product offering.
While once popular, sales of LPG forklifts have been in decline for several years due to concerns over engine emissions and worker’s health.
There is also a significant running cost difference between LPG and advance battery-powered trucks that have led to the fall-off in demand for LPG forklifts.
Maguire said: “The control systems and catalytic converters required to reduce the risk of carbon monoxide poisoning from LPG emissions add significantly to a truck’s operating costs.
“Furthermore, there are many differing emission control and operating noise level standards and rules across the world which make the manufacture and operation of engine powered tracks more and more difficult in many markets.”
Narrow Aisle launched its first lithium-ion-powered Flexi model in 2018, and since then Flexi LiTHiON models have become a popular choice among a wide range of customer groups.
Maguire, who once served as chairman of the UK Warehousing Association, explained that the Flexi LiTHiON range is expected to be a popular product with third-party logistics and e-fulfilment specialists due to its immediate availability and clean, quiet, and easy operation.
The firm claims the integrated lithium-ion system does not need maintenance and can deliver extended multi-shift availability that makes Flexi LiTHiON models an ideal ‘green’ energy solution with lower overall costs than LPG equivalents.
With all drive, hydraulic and power-steering functions digitally controlled and integrated with the battery’s advanced software systems, the Flexi LiTHiON can perform at full power throughout the whole day with no drop off in performance levels.
Narrow Aisle claims the ability to distribute power at any time means the trucks can reach maximum efficiency even during the busiest periods.
The truck monitors the battery function constantly and reports the battery status in real-time and the combination of fully integrated digital motors and lithium-ion power is so effective that truck availability is typically increased by 25 per cent every day.
The compact LiTHiON trucks mean they can operate safely and efficiently in aisles as narrow as 1.6 metres wide. They can lift loads weighing up to 2.5 kg to heights of 14 metres and are offered with a range of chassis and lift mast options to suit any application.
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