Modern Material Handling published an article about trends in the lift truck market as they pertain to lithium-ion batteries. Big Joe Forklifts CMO Martin Boyd was quoted and discussed the benefits of integrated lithium-ion batteries as it relates to the market. The lift truck industry is experiencing a major transformation as companies increasingly shift toward lithium‑ion (Li‑ion) battery technology, a change driven by the need for higher efficiency, reduced downtime, better sustainability performance, and modernized power management strategies. The article emphasizes that a battery is no longer viewed as a simple component but as a strategic system that directly influences labor productivity, equipment uptime, and throughput across warehouse, distribution, and manufacturing environments.
Why Lithium-Ion Is Outpacing Lead‑Acid
The article highlights several advantages of Li‑ion technology that are accelerating adoption:
1. Stable Performance Under Stress
Li‑ion batteries maintain consistent voltage output, even under heavy loads, unlike lead‑acid batteries which experience voltage sag as they discharge — an issue that becomes even more pronounced in cold storage environments.
2. Opportunity Charging Without Penalty
Li‑ion batteries allow quick, frequent charging bursts during breaks or between tasks.
Lead‑acid batteries, by contrast, are highly sensitive to improper charging discipline and lose lifespan when frequently opportunity‑charged.
3. Reduced Sensitivity to Cold & High‑Stress Applications
Cold storage facilities, high‑intensity manufacturing, and multi‑shift operations see meaningful benefits from Li‑ion’s stability and charging flexibility. Lead‑acid batteries in these conditions face voltage sag and strict charging limitations that reduce equipment throughput.
“Big Joe recognized these benefits early on and today, all Big Joe’s purpose-built, integrated lithium-ion Class 1 forklifts feature on-board charging as standard equipment,” says Martin Boyd Chief Marketing Officer at Big Joe Forklifts. “For single-shift or rental operations where the lift truck has long periods of idle time, an on-board charger is ideal.”