Obexer’s Boat Company First California Marina to Put a Large Capacity Zero-Emission Forklift into Operation

Company Utilizes California’s CORE Funding Leads the Charge in Zero-Emission Marina Operations 

Ventura, CA – Monday, September 23, 2024 — XL Lifts, specializing in zero and low emissions forklifts, today announced that Obexer’s Boat Company, a mainstay on the picturesque shores of Lake Tahoe, has taken a significant leap toward sustainability by integrating the first zero-emission Wiggins eBull Marina forklift into their operations. The eBull, supplied by XL Lifts and partially funded through the California’s Clean Off-Road Program, marks a milestone in marina management and environmental responsibility.

Obexer’s Boat Company, renowned for its comprehensive range of marina services, including mechanical and restoration services, water sports, and winter storage, has recently enhanced its operational capacity with a groundbreaking upgrade. The new eBull electric forklift is transforming day-to-day operations, reducing emissions significantly, and improving communication among staff due to quieter operations.

Darren Kramer, General Manager of Obexer’s Boat Company, noted the critical role the forklifts play from May through October, stating, “Without them, we couldn’t operate. The new eBull is helping us cut down on emissions and make it safer for our operators to hear staff while they spot for the driver.”

The decision to adopt a zero-emission forklift was driven by the construction of a new warehouse and the marina’s dedication to the “Keep Tahoe Blue” initiative. “After owning two Wiggins lifts that still run great after nearly 20 years, we knew we wanted another Wiggins,” said Kramer. The availability of grant funding through California’s CORE program was a crucial factor in making this sustainable transition feasible.

The eBull forklift not only supports Obexer’s in handling larger boats efficiently but also aligns with the marina’s environmental goals. “It’s possibly the first zero-emission forklift in Tahoe and maybe even in California marinas,” Kramer added. This move places Obexer’s at the forefront of sustainable marina operations, setting a benchmark for the industry.

Kramer encourages other marinas to consider similar sustainable practices, highlighting the exceptional service and partnership with XL Lifts. “Talk to Wiggins and XL Lifts. From the top down, they have always been amazing to work with,” he noted. 

To check eligibility for CORE funding, interested companies can fill out XL Lifts’s CORE Application Intake form here. View XL Lifts’s expansive line of qualified forklifts and related vouchers here.

As Obexer’s Boat Company continues to lead by example, their journey with the Wiggins eBull forklift demonstrates the potential for traditional businesses to embrace modern, eco-friendly technologies effectively.

About Obexer’s Boat Company 

Obexer’s Boat Company is the oldest marina on Lake Tahoe and has been operated by the Obexer family for over a century. Known for their commitment to quality and innovation, Obexer’s offers a full spectrum of marina services aimed at exceeding the expectations of boaters and contributing positively to their community. More information about Obexer’s Boat Company can be found at www.obexersboat.com.

About XL Lifts 

Founded in 2010 and located in Ventura, CA, XL Lifts specializes in Build America, Buy America Compliant zero- and low-emissions forklifts from 8,800 lbs. all the way up to 120,000 lbs. capacity. The company’s impressive list of clients includes some of the biggest marinas, industrial ports, agricultural companies, construction and manufacturers worldwide such as Western Precooling; SSA Marine in the Ports of Long Beach, Los Angeles, San Diego, West Sacramento and Stockton; Federal Marine Terminals; Pacific Ro Ro (a Wallenius Wilhelmsen company); SA Recycling, Sumitomo Corporation; Ports America; and Marine Group Boatworks. 

Experienced at navigating the complexities of grant-funded equipment, XL Lifts has zero-emission forklifts deployed in the CORE program, the Volkswagen Environmental Mitigation Trust program, and was the only forklift dealer selected for START (formerly ZANZEFF Project – zero emission and near zero emissions freight facilities project). More information about XL Lifts can be found at www.xlliftsinc.com.

Media Contact: 

Aimee L. Quemuel
XL Lifts
(415) 999-4065
aimee@xlliftsinc.com