Compared to Lead-Acid Batteries, Lithium-Ion Battery Forklifts are the Best Choice

In the modern logistics industry, operational efficiency and cost control are key to success. In this regard, lithium-ion battery forklifts have emerged as a popular choice for more and more businesses. This article will introduce in detail the advantages of lithium-ion battery forklifts, bringing higher efficiency and lower costs to warehouse and material handling processes.

Long Runtime of Lithium-Ion Battery Forklifts

One of the most significant advantages of lithium-ion battery forklifts is their long runtime. Compared to traditional lead-acid batteries, lithium-ion batteries have a four-fold increase in cycle life. This means lithium-ion batteries can provide longer runtime without the need for frequent charging and battery replacement. Throughout the entire discharge cycle, lithium-ion batteries maintain a stable voltage, resulting in a stable speed during operation. On the other hand, lead-acid batteries experience voltage drops during use, especially during gear shifts, resulting in a loss of about 20% of battery capacity, which reduces operational efficiency. In cold environments, the performance of lead-acid batteries deteriorates even more significantly, with a potential loss of up to 50%.

The extended lifespan of lithium-ion batteries not only helps improve warehouse operational efficiency but also enhances overall productivity. Your team will be able to accomplish more without the need for frequent breaks for charging or battery replacement. After all, in the material handling industry, normal runtime is one of the key KPIs!

Fast Charging of Lithium-Ion Battery Forklifts

Another significant advantage of lithium-ion technology is its exceptional charging speed. Compared to lead-acid batteries, lithium-ion batteries can be fully charged in less than 2 hours from zero. Furthermore, lithium ion batteries in forklifts are not affected by the "memory effect," allowing you to charge them at any time without waiting for the battery to fully discharge.

Additionally, lithium ion batteries for forklifts are more durable compared to lead-acid batteries. Lead-acid batteries degrade easily with frequent charging, while lithium-ion batteries can maintain a good condition regardless of their charging frequency or depth of discharge. This means lithium-ion batteries are a more reliable choice for new batteries or those used for more than 5 years.

Maintenance-Free Lithium-Ion Forklifts Battery 

Lead-acid batteries require daily watering, otherwise, they may overflow with acid. This not only increases labor costs because maintaining and replacing batteries requires additional time and effort, but also potentially causes environmental pollution.

In contrast, lithium ion forklift batteries require almost no maintenance. Therefore, choosing lithium-ion power can reduce costs and save time in the warehouse. Additionally, it reduces the labor demand, allowing employees to focus more on important tasks rather than spending time on battery maintenance and replacement.

No Need for Charging Rooms for Lithium-Ion Battery Forklifts

Lead-acid battery systems require the installation of battery rooms for storing and charging batteries. During charging, these batteries release hazardous hydrogen gas and sulfuric acid fumes, necessitating well-ventilated and low-temperature conditions in the battery room, which increases operational costs.

However, with lithium-ion systems, each forklift only needs one battery. Since there are no gas emission issues, opportunity charging can occur almost anywhere without the need for expensive ventilation and air-conditioned storage rooms. You no longer need to worry about storing or charging spare batteries in dedicated rooms. In fact, using lithium-ion power, you can find the most convenient locations throughout the facility to place chargers, encouraging operators to charge forklifts when not in use. This reduces costs and increases normal operating hours.

Lithium-ion battery forklifts are more environmentally friendly

If you care about the environmental friendliness of your warehouse, choosing forklifts with lithium-ion technology is a wise decision. Lithium-ion systems have more environmental advantages compared to lead-acid batteries. They are 30% more energy-efficient than lead-acid batteries, and by using lithium-ion batteries, you can reduce energy consumption in the workplace, helping to reduce carbon footprints and costs. If your company has goals to reduce its carbon footprint, choosing lithium batteries will contribute to achieving this objective.

Additionally, lead-acid batteries may pose environmental harm, especially when handling them, as they release hydrogen gas and sulfuric acid fumes. In contrast, lithium-ion batteries do not contain harmful substances and do not release hazardous gases, making them safer for both the environment and employees.

Lithium-ion battery forklifts are more cost-effective

Despite the higher initial cost of lithium-ion batteries, their advantages become evident over time, saving businesses money. After calculations, you'll find that the overall ownership cost of lithium-ion batteries is typically 20% to 40% lower than lead-acid batteries. This advantage is especially applicable to businesses operating multiple shifts, as the return on investment is usually achieved within the first year.