November 2021

November 2021 www.pwemag.co.uk Plant & Works Engineering | 37 Focus on: Moving, Lifting & FLT I rish materials handling specialist Combilift has officially launched its latest product, the Combi-XLE, as a further addition to its range of electric models. In line with the growing demand for electric powered equipment, this multidirectional forklift with up to 5-ton (10000lb) lift capacity, combines emission-free operation with powerful performance for a wide range of industries and applications. The original engine powered XL C-Series model was developed to address the requirements of tough working environments such as those in the timber, concrete and steel sectors. The new Combi-XLE incorporates the same key design features as its earlier counterpart such as high ground clearance, large, cushioned front and rear tires and a spacious cab, allowing smooth operation on semi rough terrain while offering a high level of driver comfort. With sustainability ever higher on the agenda, Combilift further helps its customers achieve their environmental goals with its versatile “3 forklifts in 1” models, which work inside and out, reducing fleet size and thereby their carbon footprint. A hallmark of all Combilift products is the ability to increase storage capacity without expanding the size of a facility, resulting in lower energy usage and associated costs such as heating, lighting and maintenance, which is of significant benefit to the environment and the workforce. Noise pollution and carbon emissions, which can impact on the health and well-being of people as well as wildlife, is also no longer an issue thanks to electric power. Drivers, employees and visitors on site appreciate the quiet operation, as do neighboring residents and businesses, particularly in urban areas. The Combi-XLE incorporates up-to-the-minute technology such as the patented all-wheel traction that reduces tire wear, load swing and enhances braking. Also included is a newly developed, patented Eco-Steer System which provides a smaller turning radius and improved user experience. Since Electric powered trucks do not have traditional combustion engines, or hydraulic transmissions, there is no longer any need to check and top up engine fluids / lubricants, resulting in longer intervals between services, ultimately saving costs. The use of toughened, eco-friendly water-based paint also dramatically reduces the amount of Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs) during build. “The technology we have incorporated into the Combi-XLE means that its performance is equally on a par with diesel or LPG powered forklifts when it comes to handling very bulky and heavy loads, while of course offering a greener operation,” said Combilift CEO and Co-Founder Martin McVicar. “We made our first electric C-Series over 18yrs ago, and now over 60% of the trucks we manufacture are electric, with availability in almost all models across our range. As more and more of our customers are opting for electric power it is obvious that they are as committed to sustainability and a circular economy as we are.” Dave Clement, production director at Roger Bullivant, part of the Soletanche Freyssinet Group, which manufacture precast concrete elements for installation in engineered foundation systems, commented: “At our South Derbyshire precast factory, we use 5 multidirectional Combi-XLE trucks to transport product from the factory to storage and then to load-out for distribution nationwide. As we had already been using Combi units for years, the product decision was straightforward, and from a driver perspective, the operation remains essentially unchanged. The reasons to move to electric were twofold: to eliminate exhaust particulates in the factory and as part of our Group environmental plan to minimise our carbon footprint. So, an improvement to the environment in more ways than one.” For further information please visit: https://combilift.com/us/xle by up to Increase Storage 50% with AisleMaster aisle-master.com Growing demand for electric powered equipment sees new launch