In this blog, we’ll explore the key aspects of servicing electric forklifts, from general maintenance best practices to the latest diagnostic technologies that minimize downtime and costs.
From securing millions in grant funding to delivering BABA-compliant forklifts that run up to three shifts a day, XL Lifts and Wiggins are helping ports and industries go electric—without compromising on power or performance.
When high-capacity equipment needs both power and sustainability, XL Lifts’ Zero-Emission Hybrid offers the best of hydrogen fuel cells and lithium batteries—delivering clean, efficient performance without compromise.
This fifth-generation Lake Tahoe marina is cutting emissions and boosting efficiency with help from XL Lifts and a zero-emission Wiggins eBull forklift.
Through its partnership with Wiggins, XL Lifts offers forklifts that meet Build America, Buy America (BABA) standards—helping businesses access federal funding while supporting U.S. manufacturing.
In an exciting development for sustainable maritime operations, SSA Marine has unveiled its groundbreaking initiative at the Port of San Diego’s Tenth Avenue Marine Terminal. This marks a significant step towards a cleaner, more sustainable future, with the introduction of the first out of six pieces of zero-emissions cargo handling equipment over the next 12 to 18 months. This initiative is not only a leap forward in environmental stewardship, but also sets a new benchmark for ports nationwide in the adoption of green technologies.
The debut of a 55,000-pound capacity Wiggins Yard eBull battery electric forklift, aptly named “The Carrillo,” signals a pivotal moment in the industry. This electric forklift was supplied by XL lifts, and is one of the largest of its kind in the United States. It’s capable of lifting to 25 metric tons and represents the forefront of zero-emissions technology in heavy-duty cargo handling.
The Carrillo honors Joe Carrillo, SSA Marine’s Regional Vice President and a native of San Diego County, who played a crucial role in the adoption of large-capacity electric forklift fleets across the country, underscoring the port’s commitment to innovation and sustainability.
SSA Marine’s leadership in transitioning to low and zero-emissions technology at marine terminals showcases the potential for significant environmental impact reductions within the industry. The collaboration with the Port of San Diego has been instrumental, with the port completing the initial installation of the necessary electrical infrastructure to support this advanced equipment. This partnership reflects a shared vision for enhancing public health and the quality of life around marine terminals.
The Port of San Diego, recognized for its efforts to foster efficient, modern, and sustainable maritime operations, is an exemplary model of how ports can balance industrial activity with environmental responsibility.
This venture is partially funded by California’s Clean Off-Road Equipment (CORE) voucher program, highlighting the role of state support in facilitating the transition to cleaner energy solutions. You can learn more about CORE funding for your own forklifts by clicking here.
As we celebrate this milestone, XL Lifts is proud to spotlight the achievements of SSA Marine and the Port of San Diego. Their dedication to reducing emissions and setting new standards for eco-friendly operations is inspiring. The Wiggins Yard eBull electric forklift stands as a testament to what’s possible when innovation meets determination to protect our planet.
For more information on how XL Lifts is contributing to the zero-emissions movement and helping ports and businesses adopt sustainable practices, we invite you to reach out. You can also click here to learn more about the Wiggins Yard eBull battery electric forklift.
When it comes to material handling, efficiency and adaptability are crucial. Especially in challenging off-road environments that are common in industries like agriculture and construction.
A true 2WD rough terrain forklift can be a powerful solution for these industries. Below, we’ll explore the unparalleled benefits of a true 2WD rough terrain forklift, and highlight the distinctions that set it apart. We’ll focus specifically on the 2WD rough terrain forklift by World, distributed by XL Lifts.
Imagine navigating a field of uneven, compacted sand with a load of hay bales. A 2WD rough terrain forklift is specifically designed for such scenarios. It provides the optimal blend of power and agility, allowing you to confidently traverse challenging surfaces like gravel, hard-packed sand, or grassy fields.
The key lies in its efficient drivetrain. Unlike its 4WD counterparts, the 2WD system sheds unnecessary weight and power, resulting in a nimble machine that excels in situations requiring precise maneuvering and quick turns.
This translates to increased productivity as operators can navigate tight spaces and uneven terrain with greater ease, minimizing downtime and maximizing efficiency.
When it comes to rough terrain forklifts, budget is often a significant consideration. The beauty of the 2WD option lies in its ability to deliver outstanding performance without the hefty price tag associated with 4WD models.
2WD rough terrain forklifts, like the World 2WD with lifting capacities of 4,000 lbs., 6,000 lbs., and 8,000 lbs., offer the versatility you need to handle a wide range of tasks. But don’t be fooled by the price tag – these machines are also built to last, boasting many of the same high-quality components found in more expensive models.
Tier 4 EPA/CARB compliant engines from renowned manufacturers like Doosan, Mitsubishi, and PSI ensure reliable operation and minimize emissions. This translates to a smart investment, allowing you to maximize your return on investment without compromising on quality or performance.
The unforgiving nature of rough terrain demands a forklift specifically designed to conquer its challenges.
The World 2WD rough terrain forklift rises to the occasion with its robust construction. A wider chassis gives this lift optimal weight distribution, a critical factor when navigating uneven surfaces and maintaining stability with a load.
Elevated ground and mast clearance provide exceptional maneuverability, allowing the forklift to effortlessly traverse obstacles and uneven terrain without getting bogged down or damaging cargo.
This translates to increased safety for your operators and the materials being handled, minimizing the risk of accidents and costly downtime.
One of the most distinctive features of the 2WD World Rough Terrain forklift is its compact footprint. This might seem counterintuitive for a powerful off-road machine, but it’s a game-changer in industries like agriculture and construction, where space is often a precious commodity.
The smaller size allows for superior maneuverability in confined spaces, allowing operators to navigate narrow aisles, tight corners, and around obstacles with exceptional ease. This translates to increased efficiency and productivity, especially in applications where precise movement and handling are essential.
Despite its compact size, the 2WD forklift retains its impressive lifting capacity, ensuring you don’t have to sacrifice power for agility.
From cost savings to greater maneuverability, 2WD forklifts offer many advantages over their 4WD counterparts, especially in rough terrain. Looking at the World 2WD Rough Terrain lift specifically, you can see some of these advantages compared to its peers by looking at the comparison chart below:
XL Lifts is not only a proud master distributor of this innovative forklift line but also offers a unique dealer program in the Western United States.
So whether you’re looking to expand your dealership offerings or you’re a potential customer in need of a TRUE 2WD rough terrain forklift, XL Lifts can guide you through the process to ensure that you have access to equipment that will transform the way you work.
If you’re a potential customer who wants more information on the World 2WD Rough Terrain forklift, click here to contact us.
To inquire about becoming a dealer, click here.
As the world shifts towards sustainable energy solutions, the debate between lithium ion batteries and hydrogen fuel cells intensifies.
However, it’s rare for this debate to focus specifically on forklifts, which is what we want to do today.
Below, we’ll explore the merits of both options when it comes to forklift technology specifically, and why the answer to the hydrogen vs. lithium debate might not be as straightforward as it seems.
Lifespan and Sustainability
When it comes to material handling equipment like forklifts, the lifespan of power sources takes center stage. Here, hydrogen fuel cells tend to shine. Unlike lithium batteries, which undergo degradation over time, hydrogen fuel cells maintain their efficiency as long as a hydrogen supply is available.
This unceasing reaction with oxygen to generate electricity makes hydrogen a steadfast choice, especially in the high-intensity demands of warehouses and distribution centers.
The extended lifespan of hydrogen fuel cells also reduces the frequency of replacements, which itself contributes to sustainable operations.
Environmental Considerations
While lithium ion batteries are hailed as eco-friendly, the process of mining lithium has significant environmental implications. Similarly, hydrogen fuel cells require resources like platinum, aluminum, and iridium, which contribute to their carbon footprint.
Hydrogen’s sourcing also raises concerns, as “green” hydrogen from renewable sources is ideal but not always practical. On the other hand, batteries are dependent on minerals often sourced through mining, raising ethical and environmental concerns.
So while both energy sources are a step in the right direction for zero emissions, there are still important environmental implications to weigh.
Energy Density and Range
When it comes to energy storage density, hydrogen fuel cells again take the lead, boasting a superior energy-to-weight ratio compared to lithium ion batteries. This advantage directly translates into extended range capabilities, a vital aspect in optimizing the efficiency of forklift operations within ports, warehouses and industrial settings.
Also, fuel cells’ compact and lightweight nature further enhances their compatibility with heavy-duty machinery, ensuring seamless integration without compromising on performance.
Lithium’s Many Benefits
So far, it would appear hydrogen fuel cells present an impressive array of benefits. But it’s important to acknowledge that lithium ion batteries also hold their place in the realm of clean energy solutions.
For applications where compact size and ease of installation are paramount, lithium batteries are especially beneficial. Their ability to fit into smaller spaces and adapt to diverse settings makes them ideal for certain environments.
Plus, the technology surrounding lithium ion batteries is advancing rapidly. Developments in energy density and extended lifespans continue to enhance their appeal.
Synergy and Future Prospects
Both hydrogen and lithium-powered forklifts undeniably have their advantages and drawbacks. However, in today’s dynamic landscape, the choice between these two technologies often boils down to the specific needs and operational context of your business.
For forklift applications, your decision may hinge on the precise operational requirements you face. Lithium-ion batteries, for instance, provide instantaneous power, making them well-suited for shorter bursts of activity. On the other hand, hydrogen fuel cells shine in scenarios demanding prolonged operation and quick refueling capabilities.
Why a Hybrid Approach Delivers the Best of Both Worlds
Rather than framing this as a competition between the two technologies, it’s crucial to adopt a holistic perspective that recognizes their individual strengths. At XL Lifts, we’re taking this comprehensive approach a step further by offering forklifts that integrate both lithium-ion batteries and hydrogen fuel cells into our cutting-edge forklift units.
In the end, our stance is that the future lies in combining the benefits of both technologies. That’s why in addition to our pure lithium-ion forklifts, we also offer hybrids, harnessing the power of both batteries and hydrogen to maximize efficiency. This innovative hybrid model optimizes forklift performance, ensuring it aligns perfectly with your operational needs. While running purely on hydrogen can be cost-prohibitive today, our hybrid solution offers a pragmatic and forward-thinking approach.
While hydrogen costs remain a concern, our hybrid forklifts provide a practical solution that leverages the strengths of both technologies.As technology continues to advance, we anticipate that the cost of hydrogen will eventually become more competitive. In the meantime, our hybrid forklifts empower your business to operate efficiently, reduce emissions, and remain agile in a rapidly changing landscape.
XL Lifts is thrilled to announce that the official opening date for the Clean Off-Road Equipment Voucher Incentive Project (CORE) has been set. On July 18, 2023 the CORE project administrators will open the funding for eligible zero-emission off-road equipment vouchers.
CORE is a program aimed at accelerating the adoption of cleaner off-road technologies by providing funding to fleets ready to purchase specific zero-emission equipment.
By offsetting the incremental cost of these technologies, CORE helps promote the use of clean technology and reduce emissions in areas most impacted by pollution.
Wondering whether your organization should apply for CORE funding?
Here are just a few of the benefits:
To participate in the CORE program and take advantage of the funding opportunities, fleet owners/operators are encouraged to reach out to CORE eligible dealers.
Dealers like XL Lifts specialize in providing electric low-emission forklifts that qualify for the CORE funding program. To see if you qualify, fill out the CORE Application Intake form here. View qualified forklifts and related vouchers here.
Did you know that some CORE funded equipment can be used to meet regulatory compliance requirements?
CARB has recently adopted proposed amendments to the In-Use Off-Road Diesel-Fueled Fleets Regulation, providing voluntary compliance flexibilities for fleets that incorporate zero-emission technology into their off-road fleets.
This further incentivizes the adoption of clean technology and supports the transition to zero-emission equipment.
To see if you qualify, fill out the CORE Application Intake form here. View qualified forklifts and related vouchers here.
Don’t miss out on this incredible opportunity to access funding for cleaner off-road equipment. Contact XL Lifts for more information on how to participate in the program and upgrade to low-emission forklifts.
Together, let’s accelerate the transition to a cleaner and more sustainable future!
At XL Lifts, we’re thrilled to announce our participation in the upcoming Zero-Emission Truck & Off-Road Equipment Showcase and Ride & Drive event in Fresno on June 21. This event provides an excellent opportunity for industry professionals to witness the capabilities of zero-emission heavy-duty off-road equipment firsthand.
Join us as we present the latest in forklift innovation, the Wiggins Yard eBull forklift, designed to meet the demands of your toughest work cycles while minimizing environmental impact.
Experience the Future of Off-Road Equipment
The Zero-Emission Truck & Off-Road Equipment Showcase and Ride & Drive event offers a unique chance to test drive zero-emission medium- and heavy-duty commercial trucks and off-road equipment.
Step behind the wheel of our Wiggins Yard eBull, a large-capacity forklift that operates with zero emissions, creating a cleaner and safer work environment. With capacities ranging from 30,000 to 70,000 lbs., this fully electric forklift can also be equipped with a hydrogen fuel cell option.
Explore Cutting-Edge Technologies
Not only will you have the opportunity to test drive our zero-emission forklift, but you’ll also stay up-to-date with the latest developments in clean transportation policy.
Connect with truck manufacturers to discover the advancements in medium- and heavy-duty zero-emission vehicles (ZEVs) directly from the source. Engage with representatives from funding programs who can provide valuable information and resources to support your transition toward zero emissions.
Expert Insights and Resources
The event will feature experts from prominent organizations, such as…
Save the date for the Zero-Emission Truck & Off-Road Equipment Showcase and Ride & Drive on June 21, 2023, at the Save Mart Center in Fresno, CA.
Register now for tickets to this full-day event that promises an immersive experience:
Don’t miss this incredible opportunity to be a part of the zero-emission revolution in the off-road equipment industry. Register now and be sure to visit our booth to discover the exceptional capabilities of the Wiggins Yard eBull forklift.