Jungheinrich’s Concept ’08: energy efficiency and ergonomics

The forklift study named ‘Concept ‘08’ showcases new solutions in the fields of energy efficiency and ergonomics. It is a low-platform truck accommodating an operator and a brand-new energy storage and drive concept: Rechargeable lithium-ion batteries mated to a direct drive could improve energy efficiency and supplement the three-phase alternating current technology that comes standard on Jungheinrich forklift trucks today. Energy storage systems based on lithium-ion are batteries doubling the life and tripling the storage capacity of conventional same-size lead batteries. They have short recharge times, enabling their accumulators to regain a full charge in just an hour. This new battery technology will allow for much more compact designs, opening the door to entirely new truck concepts and improved ergonomics. In addition, ‘Concept ’08’ has a highly efficient direct drive with gearless electric motors integrated into the wheels. When combined with the novel battery technology, this drive consumes about 15 per cent less energy compared with conventional battery-powered trucks. By taking this holistic approach, Jungheinrich is working on one of the future’s most energy-efficient drive systems.