In order to assist the electrification of the heavy material handler industry, French equipment manufacturer Manitou and Chinese forklift manufacturer Hangcha have agreed to form a joint venture in which the two businesses will develop and produce cutting-edge lithium-ion batteries.
They don’t require an introduction because Manitou is well-known in the West. However, Hangcha is perhaps as adept as a business; in 1956, it launched its own forklift facility, producing designs from other companies under licence. Since 1974, when they created their own in-house material handler, they have amassed hits.
The JV aims to increase the operational lifespan of the two firms’ deployed fleets of lead-acid battery-powered vehicles by replacing them with lithium-ion (Li-ion) batteries that last longer. The emphasis might then shift to diesel retrofits and, ultimately, the collaborative creation of whole new products.
According to Zhao Limin, Chairman and General Manager of Hangcha Group, “The establishment of a lithium battery joint and the strengthening of strategic cooperation with Manitou Group mark a new phase in the partnership between the two sides, which is a milestone in Hangcha’s global industrial layout.” “We will work together to improve the solution capabilities of new energy industrial vehicle power systems by utilising Hangcha’s core manufacturing and technological strengths in lithium battery solutions.” “Our common goals of accelerating the electrification shift and promoting sustainable development are well aligned with this alliance, which also offers strong support to the larger industrial vehicle industry.”
The joint venture facility will be crucial to the Manitou Group’s “LIFT” strategic roadmap once manufacturing starts. By 2030, LIFT hopes to increase Manitou’s electric vehicle portfolio to include telehandlers and forklifts, with EVs making up 28% of all forklift sales. In the meantime, Hangcha Group has made it known that it plans to switch to electric power entirely by the end of 2025.
Engineers, operators, salespeople, and after-sales service technicians are among the staff members that this joint venture hopes to hire. Le Mans Metropole will assist with hiring, integrating, and training new hires locally.