The development history of electric forklifts can be roughly divided into the following stages:
Early Embryonic Stage (Early 20th Century)
The prototype of electric forklifts originated from battery-powered platform trucks in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, which were mainly used in places such as railway stations at that time. In 1923, Yale & Towne Manufacturing Company launched an electric truck equipped with forks and a lifting mast, which was more similar to modern forklifts. In 1924, Clark Material Handling Company developed an electrically modified two-wheel tractor, fitted with forks and a mast supported by chains.Initial Development Stage (World War II Period)
During World War II, electric forklifts were used more widely. For example, the "Carlo Ader" electric forklift launched by Clark in 1942 was well-received in the market because it had no exhaust emissions and was suitable for use in environments with strict requirements on exhaust emissions.Technological Innovation Stage (Mid-20th Century - Late 20th Century)
After the 1950s, the number of warehouses and distribution centers increased, leading to a steady rise in the demand for electric forklifts. In 1954, Lansing Bagnall (now part of the KION Group) developed the first narrow-aisle electric reach truck, which changed warehouse design and space utilization. In 1971, Linde Material Handling showcased its first electric forklift. In 1999, the first electric forklift with an AC three-phase asynchronous motor came out, which improved performance and reliability and met the needs of outdoor working conditions.Rapid Development Stage (Early 21st Century - Present)
With the enhancement of environmental awareness and breakthroughs in lithium battery technology, electric forklifts have entered a period of rapid development. Lithium batteries have advantages such as high energy density and long service life, which have significantly improved the battery life and usability of electric forklifts. At the same time, intelligent and automated technologies have been continuously integrated, and unmanned forklifts have gradually emerged. After 2012, Automated Guided Vehicles (AGVs) developed in a more autonomous direction, and the natural navigation forklift technology based on Simultaneous Localization and Mapping (SLAM) technology gradually matured and became the mainstream of market applications. In addition, enterprises such as LEAH MACH and Hangcha have continuously launched new electric forklift products, promoting continuous innovation in the industry. The application fields of electric forklifts have also been further expanded to more industries such as e-commerce and retail.
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