The introduction of a new, top-of-the-line vehicle series brings a breath of fresh air. "We're not just moving a pile of steel and metal around here, but also combining it with everything that ensures perfect application in the intralogistics environment," says Ulrike Just.
At the premiere in front of around 70 journalists and editors-in-chief of the international trade press at the headquarters in Aschaffenburg, the new Head of Sales EMEA at Linde Material Handling left no doubt that there is always a little bit of passion involved when a new development is launched.
"We interviewed more than 2000 customers from 26 countries about what they expect from a new industrial truck.".
In addition to 12 variations of the new Xi models in the load capacity range of 1.0 to 2.0 t with integrated lithium-ion battery (as we reported), the result is a further 14 variants of the previous standard electric forklifts Linde E14 to E20 with load capacities of 1.4 to 2.0 t and trough battery (for those who want to count: there would then be a total of 26 versions).
With the E14 to E20 devices, operators can switch between lead-acid or lithium-ion batteries using a "plug & play" principle, or continue using existing batteries – because many users in recent years have placed importance on not simply having to discard existing and previously used equipment and batteries. Furthermore, the E models are designed for use with fuel cells.
A glance at the new products lined up in the "Experience Center" confirms that the developers consciously adopted a car-like instrument and dashboard design to make work easier for the operator and user. "We combine technology with intuition to perfect performance and efficiency," says Pau Carrere, VP Sales & Service Development, summing up the "comfort" factor.
Electric trucks in the 1.4 to 2.0 ton range are the core of the forklift industry, as Torsten Rochelmeyer, Senior Director Strategy & Solution, explained during the product presentation. Linde MH relies on its proven 48-volt lithium-ion battery technology and its maintenance-free asynchronous motors with their renowned high performance.
“Vacancies in logistics and warehousing are becoming increasingly difficult to fill,” says portfolio manager Rochelmeyer, outlining the well-known dilemma of the worsening labor shortage. “The new Linde electric forklifts are therefore a perfect fit for HR managers in the battle for talent.” All models feature a slim A-pillar and increased headroom. “A real space saver,” Rochelmeyer adds with satisfaction.
A new heating system is a unique selling point in the industry. Adjustable nozzles arranged around the driver's workstation and a 60 percent improvement in heating performance compared to previous models create a comfortable cabin climate even in cold outside temperatures. For hot weather, the forklifts can be optionally equipped with air conditioning. The integration of the air conditioning system into the overhead guard is also an industry first.
Photos: Koch/Linde MH
Another comfort factor is the damping and decoupling system on the axles and mast. This effectively reduces shocks and vibrations, thus providing physical relief and promoting the health of the drivers. At the same time, it prevents rapid fatigue. The standard 3.5-inch display and the optional 7-inch display are reminiscent of current automotive interior standards. These displays provide the driver with a wide range of information. The list of optional equipment includes another unique feature in the industry: Linde Steer Control. A mini-wheel or a joystick replaces the traditional steering wheel. The forklift driver's left arm rests on a support, and the vehicle is controlled with just the fingers and minimal movements, further reducing strain.
Safety is also a top priority. A growing number of forklift functions, available either as standard or optional equipment, ensure a high level of protection for the driver and their work environment. The Linde Load Assist system, which automatically adjusts lifting and tilting functions to the load weight and lifting height to prevent tipping accidents, is fitted as standard. If the forklift is equipped with a cabin, the electronic seatbelt buckle monitoring can be combined with door monitoring. Service technicians can configure the software to specify whether the seatbelt must be worn even when the door is closed, or whether it is sufficient for the driver to either close the door or fasten their seatbelt.
The Linde Reverse Assist Radar, the latest safety assistance equipment available exclusively from Linde, is available as an option. It detects both moving and stationary objects behind the forklift and, in the event of danger, rapidly brakes the vehicle to a standstill.
Last but not least, the AI-based safety assistance systems Linde Reverse Assist Camera and Front Assist Camera contribute to the goal of accident-free logistics. Integrated into the vehicle display, these camera systems can distinguish between people and objects and actively intervene in dangerous situations by reducing the forklift's speed.
Wireless data transmission between vehicle control and cloud applications on a data-protected server enables predictive maintenance as well as over-the-air software updates. Further efficiency gains are promised by integrating forklifts into digital process chains with warehouse management and forklift guidance systems.
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