The Changing World of Intra-Logistics - Europe is becoming Electric
Why the demand for electric lifts in Europe has been growing since 2009.
Developments in the market show a clear trend towards electro mobility in Intralogistics. Since 2009, Electric trucks have been more in demand in the European Union than Engine trucks.
Factors such as energy and maintenance expense, sharply rising oil and fuel prices, and overall vehicle costs are becoming increasingly important.
One reason for the fall in demand for engine powered forklifts is the ever increasing price of fuel.
In the last ten years, the average price for fuel has nearly doubled and this is not about to change as the supply continues to become rarer and more difficult to access.
Furthermore, while engine trucks tend to be slightly cheaper than electric trucks and their batteries initially, electric trucks come with considerably lower energy and servicing costs which make them cheaper in the long term.
Analysis of the Total Cost of Ownership (TCO) shows the clear, long term advantages of electric forklifts: the initial purchasing price amortizes itself more quickly.
Additionally, the purchase price of an engine truck is also on the rise because the stricter emission standards being put into place mean the need for new and expensive technologies which reduce pollutants.
Nevertheless, this trend towards electro mobility does not completely do away with the need for engine drive systems. In the end, the intended operational profile for the forklift is of the greatest importance when deciding which type of truck best fits your needs.
The critical question when buying a forklift: "Electric or Engine?"
The key to deciding lies in the vehicle's operational profile
What are the strengths of electric and combustion motor forklifts? Which type of truck is best suited for different areas of use? And under which conditions do the different trucks provide the greatest potential for savings?
