Lithium-ion technology and sustainable solutions in electromobility

By Staff Report August 1, 2024 11:44 am IST

Jungheinrich is leading material handling and intralogistics with a blend of advanced technologies and sustainability. Manojit Acharya, Managing Director—India & Thailand, shares lithium-ion solutions for safety features. Jungheinrich’s initiatives are driving efficiency and environmental responsibility in the MHE sector.

What innovative technologies do you offer in the material handling and intralogistics sector?

Jungheinrich constantly innovates material handling and intralogistics soltuions. We integrate megatrends like automation, digitisation, and networking with cutting-edge product, IT, and software solutions. We are fully committed to advancing internal processes and embody the principles of Intralogistics 4.0.

We are leading the way in lithium-ion technology to push for electromobility in intralogistics. Our solutions address current operational demands and anticipate future challenges, citing our dedication to innovation. This innovation is to address current operational demands and future challenges.

Many companies have moved on to seek sustainable products and solutions. Customers also have similar demands with a focus on sustainability. Sustainability is in our DNA. We were the first manufacturers to launch material handling equipment (MHE) with a lithium-ion battery. Today, the proportion of our forklifts powered by electricity is approaching 100 percent. We produce 100 percent electric forklift trucks, helping to minimise CO2 emissions. We are also pioneers in Li-Ion solutions. Almost all trucks are available with Li-Ion batteries.

On a global scale, Jungheinrich has sold over 1,000,000 electric trucks, lithium-ion and battery electric, contributing to a reduction in CO2 emissions by up to 20 percent. Our leadership in sustainable practices got recognition as a top 1 percent sustainable company for three consecutive years by EcoVadis. We have been innovators in this field, producing the first four-wheel electric truck 70 years ago and launching the first MHE with lithium-ion batteries in 2011. Today, nearly 100 percent of our forklifts are powered by electricity, reinforcing our commitment to sustainability – a core pillar of our Strategy 2025+.

We have in-house research, development, and production capabilities, which allow us to offer a unique system in the market. Our lithium-ion solutions provide numerous advantages. The Battery Management System (BMS) prevents deep discharge, ensuring a longer service life. Fast charging is possible, and the system is maintenance and gas-free. We provide a five-year warranty and ensure a high availability of trucks and batteries. Energy savings are higher compared to conventional chargers. Battery charging is safe and easy, eliminating the need for battery changes and costly infrastructure. These batteries provide 6 to 10 times more cycles, allowing for 100 percent discharge. They are also more environmentally friendly compared to traditional lead-acid batteries.

How do you address challenges faced by the Indian market for products and solutions?

As modern warehousing facilities grow vertically, we have a significant demand for our semi-automatic Very narrow aisle (VNA) trucks and order pickers. In addition to material handling equipment (MHE), we are witnessing a rising interest in our digital solutions, including fleet management systems, warehouse management systems (WMS), and automated guided vehicles (AGVs).

Furthermore, there is a continuous growth trend for our environmentally friendly, highly efficient, and reliable Li-Ion battery technology. Our intralogistics solutions effectively manage the warehouse process, from incoming materials to outgoing shipments. The product range includes equipment capable of handling palletised and non-palletised loads, facilitating floor-to-floor movement and storage within racking systems up to 18 meters high. We cater to diverse industries, including automotive, engineering, pharmaceuticals, chemicals, FMCG, retail, and paper. The applications span from docking stations to manufacturing areas and storage locations.

Our business model encompasses the sales and rental of trucks, including VNA trucks. We offer WMS, warehouse navigation systems (WNS), and various logistics interfaces alongside digital products. We maintain a fleet of equipment for short-term rental, including electric pallet trucks, stackers, reach trucks, and electric counterbalance trucks. Additionally, we refurbish equipment from the rental market for resale. The product portfolio emphasises quality and reliability, addressing the logistical challenges that companies of all sizes face. We offer various warehousing setups, manual hand pallet trucks, fully automated warehouses, racks, automated storage and retrieval systems (ASRS), AGVs, and warehouse automation software.

How do you ensure the safety of material-handling equipment in diverse industrial environments?

Choosing the right safety accessories is essential for maximising the longevity and efficiency of material handling equipment. With our original accessories, operations remain secure and compliant with evolving industry standards. The requirements for material handling equipment and warehouse operations frequently change over their life cycle. Whether due to changes in warehouse logistics, new occupational safety regulations, or legal mandates, we ensure that users’ trucks remain aligned with these shifting demands.

Our advanced safety accessories include LED warning lights, which provide clear visibility of pathways and enhance operator safety. Camera systems offer an additional layer of vigilance, helping operators maintain awareness of their surroundings and reducing the risk of accidents. Collision warning systems proactively alert users to potential hazards, allowing timely interventions to prevent incidents. Biometric access control systems add a personalised layer of security, ensuring only authorised personnel can operate the equipment. Fleet management solutions optimise safety and performance across operations, enhancing overall efficiency.

Our service team is committed to meeting increasing operational requirements and customising the performance of warehouse equipment and forklifts to suit specific customer needs. 

How are companies leveraging data-driven insights to improve decision-making and operational efficiency?

Companies leverage digital solutions and AI to achieve various benefits in today’s corporate environment. These improvements increase the efficiency and optimisation of warehouse processes. They reduce incorrect storage and lower accident rates. Networking of manual and automated processes eases the workload for employees. Enhanced resource planning becomes possible. Creating space-saving warehouse logistics and increasing process reliability for recurring routine processes also helps. These advancements have been instrumental in transforming our operations and enhancing overall productivity.