Electric Forklifts - Frequently Asked Questions

Electric forklifts are becoming the go-to choice for businesses focused on sustainability, efficiency, and lower running costs. Whether you're new to electric handling equipment or upgrading your fleet, the FAQs below cover everything from battery care to performance comparisons—so you can make an informed decision for your operations.

1. How long do electric forklifts last?

Electric forklifts generally last between 8 to 10 years, but this can vary significantly depending on how intensively they are used, the working environment, and how well they are maintained. With regular servicing and proper battery care, some electric forklifts have been known to operate efficiently for 12 years or more.

Key factors that impact the lifespan of an electric forklift include:

• Battery type and care: Lithium-ion batteries tend to last longer (up to 3,000 charge cycles) compared to traditional lead-acid batteries (about 1,200–1,500 cycles).
• Workload and shifts: Single-shift operations put less strain on the truck than multi-shift or continuous-use environments.
• Environment: Clean, dry indoor environments are ideal. Dust, moisture, and extreme temperatures can shorten a truck’s lifespan.
• Maintenance routine: Scheduled servicing, daily checks, and proactive part replacement will significantly extend life expectancy.

For a long-lasting electric forklift that’s built for industrial performance, check out the RX 60-25 Electric Forklift Truck with Triplex Clear-View Mast – offering strength, stability and extended service life.

2. When should electric lift truck batteries be charged?

Charging strategies vary depending on the type of battery your forklift uses:

• Lead-acid batteries: These should typically be charged when the battery reaches 20–30% of its remaining charge. Charging too frequently (before it reaches that point) can reduce its lifespan, and discharging it too far (below 20%) can cause battery plate damage. Lead-acid batteries should be fully charged each time and allowed to cool down after charging.

• Lithium-ion batteries: These are more efficient and flexible. They support opportunity charging, meaning you can plug them in during short breaks or between tasks. This keeps them topped up and ready without shortening battery life. This makes them ideal for fast-paced or multi-shift operations.

The RX 20-20P Electric Forklift Truck features a fast-charging lithium-ion battery, perfect for opportunity charging and high-frequency usage.

3. How long does it take to charge an electric forklift?

Charging time depends on battery size, charger type, and battery technology. Here’s a general guide:

• Lead-acid batteries: Charging typically takes 8 to 12 hours for a full charge. This is followed by a cool-down period of 4 to 8 hours, meaning trucks are often charged overnight or during off-shifts.

• Lithium-ion batteries: These are much faster – often fully charging in just 1.5 to 3 hours, and in some cases under an hour using a fast charger. They also support partial charging, which means you can top up the battery without damaging its performance.

If you need minimal downtime and fast turnaround, lithium-powered trucks like the RX 20-16C are a great choice, offering high performance with shorter charging windows.

4. Electric forklift vs diesel - which is better?

Choosing between an electric forklift and a diesel forklift depends on your working environment, load requirements, and long-term cost considerations. Here's a more in-depth comparison:

Electric forklifts are best suited for indoor use, low-noise environments, and operations with a focus on sustainability. Diesel forklifts remain the go-to for heavy-duty, outdoor applications where raw power and long runtime are priorities.

If your priority is a clean, quiet, and efficient warehouse environment, explore STILL’s full electric forklift range for powerful and eco-conscious solutions.

Need More Help? Contact Us

If you have questions that weren’t covered above or want tailored recommendations for your business, our expert team is ready to help.

Still unsure? Contact our expert team – we’re happy to help you find the ideal stacker for your specific workflow and space.