Manufacturing Today Issue - 217 October 2023 | Page 56

Combilift __________________________________________________________________________________________________________
In addition to investing in the development of its manufacturing plant , Combilift allocates resources each year towards new equipment and developing new products . “ About seven percent of our annual turnover is dedicated to reinvestment . This has led to new product development , including advancements in our electric and warehouse trucks . One notable ongoing project that has been in progress for the past three to four years is the development of an autonomous vehicle . As part of that , we recently launched the Combi-AGT , marking a significant milestone . In addition , we have been expanding our range of larger electric trucks and our transition to electric-powered forklifts has been noteworthy , with 70 percent of our current production being electric models . Our approach revolves around actively listening to our customers , understanding their challenges , and then developing products that address their needs in the long run . Combilift is owned by two engineers who are passionate about research and development and problem-solving . As a result , when we encounter customers facing challenges or problems , our focus shifts towards new product development and research within our dedicated R & D department . Here , our owners and team dedicate their time and expertise to shaping innovative products and ideas ,” he enlightens .
Considering Combilift ’ s remarkable achievements in manufacturing electric models , Paul offers insightful perspectives on the progress of electric vehicles and the dynamics of the market . “ Electric vehicles have gained significant traction in the forklift industry due to their suitability for conversion . These settings allow for the availability of dedicated charging stations that can conveniently accommodate overnight charging during regular duty cycles . In contrast , vehicles that cover longer distances face challenges in predicting the location of charging stations , making ICE-powered forklifts a more practical choice . Converting to electric power within warehouse settings , where power infrastructure is readily available , is common and straightforward . Furthermore , the shift towards electric forklifts is driven by customer demand , as it benefits the environment , operator comfort , and employee well-being by reducing noise and air pollutants . Technological advancements in motor controllers , charging systems , and batteries have improved runtimes , making electric forklifts more comparable to their engine-powered counterparts . While electric vehicles on the road have gained attention in the past decade , the adoption of electric power in forklifts has been a successful trend for a much longer time ,” he ends .
Combilift ’ s enduring legacy as a pioneer in long load handling , coupled with its exceptional engineering expertise and global partnerships , positions it to continue driving customized innovations that enhance logistics efficiency on a global scale . With a steadfast commitment to agility and sustainability , Combilift sets the stage for further industryleading achievements . ■
www . combilift . com
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