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Marina Electric Forklifts

Customer Spotlight: Obexer's Boat Company

July 30, 2024

Customer Spotlight: Obexer’s Boat Company and the Move to Zero-Emissions

XL Lifts

Nestled on the picturesque shores of Lake Tahoe, Obexer’s Boat Company is making waves when it comes to innovation and environmental stewardship in the marina industry.

As a full-service marina, Obexer’s offers a comprehensive range of services from mechanical and restoration services to water sports and winter storage. After more than a century, the Obexer legacy continues into its fifth generation with Sarah Obexer at the helm of Obexer’s Boat Company.

But recently, they’ve taken a significant leap forward in their operations with the adoption of a zero-emission Wiggins eBull Marina forklift, supplied by XL Lifts.

We caught up with Darren Kramer, General Manager of Obexer’s Boat Company, to get some insights into how the integration of this cutting-edge technology is not only enhancing their operations, but also aligning with their commitment to environmental responsibility.

Essential Role of Forklifts at Obexer’s

Forklifts are vital at Obexer’s, facilitating numerous daily operations from May through October. “Without them, we couldn’t operate,” says Kramer.

Traditionally, these forklifts handle everything from managing dry rack storage customers to stepping sailboat masts.

The introduction of the new eBull electric forklift is set to reduce emissions significantly and improve safety with quieter operations, allowing for better communication among staff.

Choosing the eBull Electric Forklift

The decision to upgrade to an electric forklift came naturally to Obexer’s. “After owning two Wiggins lifts that still run great after nearly 20 years, we knew we wanted another Wiggins,” explains Kramer.

The construction of a new warehouse and a strong desire to contribute to the “Keep Tahoe Blue” initiative made the eBull an obvious choice.

The availability of grant funding through California’s CORE program further sealed the deal, aligning perfectly with the marina’s forward-thinking approach. Those interested in securing CORE funding for an XL Lifts forklift should submit our form here.

Customer Spotlight: Obexer's Boat Company Forklift in Action

Impact of the New Electric Forklift

Since deploying the eBull forklift, Obexer’s has seen immediate improvements in handling capacities and environmental impact. The electric forklift handles larger boats efficiently, eliminating the need for a Travelift and significantly reducing noise and exhaust pollution.

“It’s possibly the first zero-emission forklift in Tahoe and maybe even in California marinas,” Kramer notes proudly, highlighting a milestone in the industry.

Sustainability and Business Growth

Although it’s early days, the zero-emission forklift has already positioned Obexer’s as a leader in sustainable marina operations.

Kramer anticipates this move will not only enhance their operational efficiency, but also set a benchmark for environmental responsibility in the industry.

Advice for Peers

Kramer’s advice to similar businesses is clear: “Talk to the guys at Wiggins and XL Lifts.”

He praised XL Lifts’ customer service and the personal touch they bring to their partnerships, echoing the values of family-owned businesses. XL Lifts offers several Wiggins marina forklifts here.

Looking Ahead

With nearly two decades of partnership with XL Lifts, Obexer’s relationship with the company is stronger than ever. Kramer is hopeful that their example will inspire other marinas to adopt sustainable practices.

As Obexer’s Boat Company continues to innovate and lead by example, their journey with the Wiggins eBull forklift illustrates what’s possible when traditional businesses embrace modern, sustainable technologies.

This transition not only represents a significant technological upgrade, but also a critical step towards protecting the pristine environment of Lake Tahoe. With XL Lifts and Wiggins, Obexer’s Boat Company is setting new standards for eco-friendly operations, demonstrating that sustainability and efficiency can go hand in hand.

For more information on Obexer’s and their pioneering efforts, visit www.obexersboat.com.

To learn more about the Wiggins electric marina forklift, visit http://xlliftsinc.com/product/electric-marina-forklift/.

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March 19, 2024

XL Lifts Spotlights Zero Emissions Transition at Port of San Diego

XL Lifts

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.

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December 6, 2018

The XL Lifts / Wiggins Lift Team Awarded Marine Recreation Association Innovation Award for its Work in Lowering Emissions with its Marina and Boatyard Clients

marine, xl lifts

Aimee Quemuel

The XL Lifts / Wiggins Lift Team Awarded Marine Recreation Association Innovation Award for its Work in Lowering Emissions with its Marina and Boatyard Clients

December 6, 2018 — Ventura, CA — XL Lifts, specializing in zero and low emissions forklifts, today announced the company was named a Marine Recreation Association Innovation Award winner for the companies work with progressive marina and boatyards to meet their green initiatives with low emission or zero emission marina electric forklifts. The Marine Recreation Association (MRA) announced the recipients of the Association’s Innovation Awards at its annual conference in Santa Barbara, California.

“It is an honor to recognize the XL Lifts/Wiggins Lift team for their extensive work in zero and low emission forklift technology and services. With their help, progressive marinas and boatyards can reduce their impact on the environment, and still have all the horsepower required to get their jobs done,” said Mark Sandoval, MRA President.

In 2017, XL Lifts worked with Sunnyside Marina in Lake Tahoe to put the first Tier 4 final into operation in California. Earlier this year, North Tahoe Marina was California’s second marina to put a Tier 4f into operation. In 2017, XL Lifts worked with Sunnyside Marina in Lake Tahoe to put the first Tier 4 final into operation in California. Earlier this year, North Tahoe Marina was California’s second marina to put a Tier 4f into operation. Most recently, the Marine Group Boat Works committed to purchasing the first Tier 4f for its San Diego-based shipyard with a grant from the Maritime Administration.

“While other suppliers told us low emission heavy duty equipment was still a concept, XL Lifts was unveiling its latest low-emissions model for us to buy right then and there. In working with XL Lifts, we’ve been able to implement forklift initiatives that are sourced locally and are eco-friendly, require less maintenance and help us far surpass regulatory requirements for at least the next five years,” said Todd Roberts, President at Marine Group Boat Works.

While XL Lifts has made great strides to date on lowering emissions of marinas and shipyards, this is just the tip of the iceberg. Wiggins Lift recently announced the first marina electric forklift using lithium battery technology. The electric eBull for marinas will be the first of its kind, and signifies a big movement towards true zero emissions, not just lower emissions.

“As an authorized Wiggins dealer, XL Lifts will have yet another solution offering for its marina and boatyard clients looking to implement low- and zero-emission forklift initiatives,” said President of XL Lifts Mike Marzahl.

In additional to technical expertise, XL Lifts is well-versed in the grant funding process, and has helped clients secure grant money to offset the cost of low or zero emission forklifts. XL Lifts’ extensive product knowledge coupled with the ability to help clients secure grants to mitigate the costs of advanced lithium-battery technology will help the company continue on its mission to enable zero-emissions marina and boatyards of the future.

About Marine Recreation Association (MRA)

The Marine Recreation Association is a non-profit association that represents marina owners, operators and industry professionals throughout the Western U.S., Mexico, Hawaii and Australia. The Association’s mission is to provide a united voice in representing the interests of the boating and marina industries and to help educate and inform in all areas of recreational boating. More information can be found at www.marina.org.

About XL Lifts

XL Lifts specializes in zero and low emissions forklifts. XL Lifts also provides consulting, new and used forklifts and other equipment, parts, and maintenance software to some of the biggest marinas, boatyards, industrial ports and manufacturers worldwide such as SSA Marine at the Port of Stockton, Federal Marine Terminals, Ports America and Marine Group Boatworks. XL Lifts’ line includes diesels, rough terrains, LPG/dual fuel, lithium and lead acid electric, and marina forklifts. More information about XL Lifts can be found at www.xlliftsinc.com.

Media Contact:

Aimee L. Quemuel
Codey Communications
(415) 753-9005
aimee@codeycommunications.com

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November 15, 2018

Worried About Global Warming? Electric Forklifts a Step in The Right Direction

Aimee Quemuel

In early October, the news was full of reports from the U.N.’s Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change, which released a dire 728-page document that warned against global temperature rises. According to the report, even the world’s agreed-upon single degree Celsius increase in global temperature will change the Earth as we know it. Instead, the report urged world leaders to take greater action in an attempt to limit the increase to just .5 degree Celsius, which would maintain ecosystems similar to those that currently exist.

The report is gloomy, without a doubt, as the panel expressed both concern that the world’s countries would not be able to limit the increase but also optimism that it could be done with drastic changes. Frustratingly, scientists refused to comment on the feasibility of these changes actually happening.

The Carbon Culprit

An undeniable factor in the global rise in temperature is the effect carbon dioxide has and continues to have. In order to effectively limit temperature increases, the world needs to adopt new energy systems and solutions, rethink land-use, and adopt new transportation options, among others. Specifically, actions that reduce the amount of carbon being emitted into the atmosphere are expected to have the most effect. Low or Zero-emission power generation, electric transportation, green infrastructure, and improved energy efficiency can all drive this change. A movement away from fossil fuels and towards renewables would not only reduce carbon levels, but could also clear the air of other pollutants.

What Can Businesses Do?

Although the report is intended for world leaders, that doesn’t mean individuals and businesses are helpless. As with so many areas of change and innovation in the past, it may come down to consumers, business, and industry to drive the necessary changes. The best way to do that is to shop with global warming in mind. Choose products that are produced close to home and don’t require long-distance shipping and transport. Choose high-efficiency products when possible. Purchase items that don’t emit greenhouse gases and support clean energy development.

Electric Forklifts to The Rescue

At XL Lifts, we are extremely proud to carry small and large capacity electric forklifts. Electric forklifts are one example of how businesses have the power to drive change and innovation. Our customers had asked for gas-alternative forklifts and we were happy to deliver. Electric forklifts produce no emissions and do not require gasoline. Low-maintenance lithium batteries last longer and are safer for the environment, and still provide electric lifts with the power necessary to get the job done.

We carry the large capacity Wiggins Yard eBull electric forklift which has capacity from 30,000 to 88,000 lbs. Our smaller capacity electric forklifts by World range from 3,000 to 25,000 lbs.

XL Lifts is the first to offer large capacity electric forklifts to the industrial sector and we’re glad we did! While switching to electric forklifts isn’t enough to save the planet, it’s a step in the right direction and can help companies reduce their carbon footprint, save money, and set a good example by influencing others. We believe that consumer demand can drive change by influencing both political and economic policies and business manufacturing decisions. At this point in the game, every person on the planet has a vested interest in limiting global temperature rise. Going green isn’t just good PR anymore, it’s become increasingly vital to everyone’s survival. Every little bit helps. Put your purchasing power to work; retire your old, polluting forklifts and replace them with greener, more efficient electric forklifts from XL Lifts.

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