The UK faces the challenge of delivering faster growth but there is a concern that inflation may rise as we march into 2025, all with a backdrop of a decline in business confidence.
As the Grant Handling Senior Team review the challenges if the new year, it is clear that the cost of energy for SME customers is likely to be an obstacle ahead.
How much will your FLT fuel cost you this year? Overall energy? Can you make savings elsewhere?
Investing in new fork lift truck technology which reduces energy usage can help protect businesses from volatile prices. “Bills are rising, not falling, and remain well above their levels pre Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, “ says KPMG in its Powering up for 2025 report.
Despite this pain point, The Grant Team recognise that the UK is gearing up for a greener future. So, if your business is transporting wind turbines, installing heat pumps or storing solar panels, if we stay positive and our equipment and attitudes up-to-date, then many SMEs are likely to benefit from the activity sparked by Labour’s green agenda.
As the official importer and distributor of HELI Forklifts, we supply the latest in forklift technology. In 2025, we feel confident that the benefits of our Electric Forklifts range will support SMEs in their goals to reduce costs and improve efficiency, ready for new business opportunities linked to the government’s clean power initiatives.
Reduce energy costs
Our range of Heli electric forklifts have features designed to reduce energy costs and improve operational efficiency. These forklifts are equipped with advanced lithium-ion batteries that offer an energy conversion rate exceeding 95%, ensuring that a higher percentage of input energy is used during operations. This translates to lower electricity consumption and reduced energy expenses over time.
What other benefits will lithium-ion battery forklifts deliver?
Flexible Charging: Lithium-ion batteries allow for ‘opportunity charging,’ meaning staff can quickly recharge the battery during short breaks.
Environmentally Friendly: Electric forklifts produce zero emissions, which significantly improves air quality in indoor and on-site locations.
(Did you know that exposure to NOx emissions released from fuel-powered fork lift trucks can cause inflammation of the airways and increase susceptibility to respiratory infections?)
Lower maintenance: Unlike lead-acid batteries, lithium-ion batteries don’t require regular maintenance such as water refilling or acid-level checks. Maintenance-free operation minimises downtime and labour costs.
Cost savings: Lower total cost of ownership due to reduced energy use, longer lifespan, and lower maintenance requirements.
Reduced downtime: Faster charging and the ability to charge during short breaks minimises downtime, keeping forklifts in operation longer.
Temperature tolerance: Lithium-ion batteries perform well across a wide range of temperatures, including cold storage environments.
Long Lifespan: Lithium-ion batteries last longer. Batteries retain over 75% capacity after 4,000 charge cycles.
Discover some electric models from Heli ‘s electric fork lift truck range which offer energy and cost savings, flexible charging, sophisticated battery management and low maintenance:
3 Wheel Electric Counterbalance Forklift 1.5-2T
This compact three-wheel electric is ideal for the lifting of light and medium loads on a flat indoor surface. It is most suited in areas with narrow aisles or space restricted areas and can lift to 1500 kg at a 500 mm load centre.
4 Wheel Electric Counterbalance Forklift 4-7T
This 4-wheel electric offers powerful performance making it suitable for both indoor and outdoor applications. This truck can lift loads of up to 5000 kg at a 500 mm load centre. The 5000 kg model has a larger battery capacity so that it can be operated for longer off one charge, making it ideal for long working hours.
4 Wheel Electric Heavy Duty Forklift 8.5-10T
This heavy-duty truck is ideal for the movement of large and heavy loads up to 10000 kg at a 600 mm load centre. This truck is the perfect alternative to an engine forklift due to its quiet and powerful electric battery. It can be used in both indoor and outside applications and is designed for multiple application types.
Our positive outlook
As a business, like any other, we appreciate that business confidence fluctuates, but we believe that businesses which continue to invest can manage their cost base and deliver efficiencies to enable them to take market share, strengthen their brand presence and build customer loyalty. By investing in lithium-ion technology today will reduce energy costs over time and put your business in a health position when facing your competitors.
Talk to our team on info@granthandling.com or 0845 073 9407 to discuss Heli ‘s electric forklift range today.