Posted by Brooke Just
Irish materials handling specialist Combilift’s Combi-XLE is a multidirectional forklift with up to 5-ton (10,000 pound) lift capacity. It also 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. The Combi-XLE is quiet for urban and residential neighborhood worksites.
The Combi-XLE incorporates technology such as the all-wheel traction that reduces tire wear, load swing and enhances braking. Also included is a newly developed, 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, whilst of course offering a greener operation,” said Combilift CEO and co-founder Martin McVicar. “We made our first electric C-Series over 18 years ago, and now over 60 percent 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.”
At Combilift’s own manufacturing facility, features such as daylighting technology - LED lights with individual PIR sensors, solar panel energy and rainwater harvesting are all aimed at conserving natural resources and decreasing energy consumption. Ninety-two percent of all components used in the truck assembly are 100 percent recyclable and the company is also on track to save more than 473 tons of CO2 by using carbon neutral wood chips instead of gas for heating within the factory.
