Forklift Innovations that Changed the Workplace

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Forklift Innovations that Changed the Workplace

Alex Kirkup-Lee • March 14, 2022

Forklifts have come a long way since the first three-wheeled wagon was created by American engineer Eugene Bradley Clark in 1917.

When WWII hit, forklifts become more commonplace, as the need for manufacturing and efficiency become paramount to meet the requirements of the production of guns and ammunition. Since then, forklifts have continued to grow in popularity. This blog sheds a light on a few of the ways forklifts have developed, and where we see forklifts heading in future.

Different Forklifts Developed for Different Jobs

Forklifts are very versatile pieces of equipment, used across many different work settings. From a three-wheeled wagon developed to improve the efficiency of construction work to forklifts being used across many different work settings, forklifts have become very versatile pieces of equipment that can be used across a broad range of sectors.

For warehouses, three-wheeled forklifts are often the most popular choice due to their manoeuvrability, making them perfect for tight spaces, whereas for agricultural, a four-wheeled truck is likely to be more suitable due to extra stability and durability for heavy-duty tasks. One of the most important innovations in recent times is the creation of forklifts that can offer more niche uses, from side loader forklifts to articulated machines, to reach lift trucks, the wide range of trucks means that there is now a suitable vehicle for all industries and requirements.

New Ways of Powering Forklifts

One of the biggest ways forklifts have developed over the years is by the way they are powered. While diesel vehicles are still commonly used, gas is also popular, and in recent years there has been an immense rise in electric vehicles, as people become more conscious about the environment and alternative power methods.

With zero carbon emissions, electric forklifts are more environmentally friendly, easier to drive and affordable to operate. It is likely that electric forklifts will only rise in popularity in the coming years. With the ban on the sale of gas vehicles by 2030, electric vehicles in the coming years are likely to become more powerful, have longer running times and faster charging, making them more efficient than they are today.

The Future of Forklifts

Forklifts have come a long way in the past century, but where are they heading next? As mentioned, electric forklifts are likely to see significant developments in the next couple of years. In addition to that, forklifts are likely to become smarter and the self-driving technology being used in cars could make its way over to the industrial world, meaning that in the future, forklifts may not even need to be operated by a driver. This would mean that the operator would simply need to input information on what needs lifting and to where, and the machine would be able to do the rest on its own. In addition to this, we are likely to see the development of further safety measures, such as the introduction of auto-stop and sensor-based systems.

If you are looking to upgrade your fleet to improve efficiency in your warehouse, we have an extensive range of both new and used trucks, for purchase or hire.

Browse our website, or get in touch today to find out more.

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