With any industry in the world it is constantly adapting and evolving. The forklift industry and forklift technology is no exception to this. Businesses aim to improve safety, efficiency and look toward becoming more sustainable. Forklift technology can play a pivotal part in this.
Electric Forklifts
An undeniable factor in changes to the latest forklift technology is the shift from combustion engines to electric forklifts powered by lithium-ion batteries.
Some of the benefits businesses reap from these types of forklifts are:
- Zero emissions
- Longer operation hours
- Less downtime due to improvements to battery technology
Forklift Automation
There have been many different advances in AI and Machine learning. The development of Automated Guided Vehicles (AGVs) and Autonomous Mobile Robots (AMRs) is causing a revolution in the process of handling materials in the workplace.
This forklift technology allows the machines to operate without direct human intervention, by optimising the efficiency of forklift automation. Businesses are seeing:
- Improved safety
- Reduced labour costs
- Increased throughput
Improved Safety Features
Within the warehouse industry employee safety remains a top priority and forklift technology helps to improve this by putting employee safety first.
Newer models containing the latest forklift technology can contain many different features, including:
- Collision avoidance systems
- Cameras and sensors which give operators a full 360-degree view of their surroundings
On top of this, newer forklifts come with advanced software which monitors operator behaviour and vehicle performance. This can give staff a preemptive warning of safety issues before they become major safety concerns.
Data Analytics
The idea that the Internet of Things (IoT) being implemented into fleet management systems means large scale businesses can benefit from the increased efficiency.
Modern forklift technology can collect data such as:
- Performance statistics
- Health status
- Usage patterns
When these are put through an analytic tool, it can help refine the decision making process.
Design Improvements
As well as forklift technology and automation, the actual ergonomic design of forklifts has gained traction. There is a focus toward employee well-being and most modern forklifts have operator comfort in mind.
Some examples include:
- Adjustable seating
- Intuitive control schemes
- Reduced noise levels
- Air conditioning
- Heated seats
These initiatives not only improve the quality of the forklift, they help improve employee work conditions. This helps improve productivity and reduces the fatigue associated with less intuitive designs.
Upgrade Your Forklift Fleet with Trucks Direct
Forklift technology is at a pivotal point within the forklift industry. It is constantly shaped by evolving technological advancements. Electric forklifts, forklift automation and the latest technology are all products of a demand for efficiency, safety and sustainability.
Any business which wants to embrace these latest trends are bound to see improved operational efficiency. Ensure your workplace safety and a positive impact on environmental sustainability.
At Trucks Direct we also embrace these latest trends. We offer a wide range of electric forklifts and aim to help you find the best to suit your business. For more information get in touch with our team.