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Improving efficiencies through innovative battery chemistries
Benjamin Ting , Chief Commercial Officer of Echion Technologies explores the emerging battery chemistries that could positively impact industry operations
Industries around the world are taking steps to achieve net-zero emissions by 2050 and the UK transportation and logistics sector is one of the industries leading the charge , and setting an example that other industries should note . Electric forklifts , pallet trucks , and stackers are already commonplace in UK warehouses . However , while within warehouses , electric vehicles are relatively commonplace , there are limitations on the vehicles ’ capabilities due to outdated battery technologies . In a 24 / 7 industry like logistics , time spent charging vehicles is money lost , but there are emerging innovative chemistries that could simultaneously improve current vehicle efficiencies , electrify more vehicles within operator fleets , and accelerate the transition to a low-carbon industry .
Most warehouses , ports and freight terminals in the UK , to some extent , utilize a percentage of electric vehicles within operations . Different vehicles require different types of batteries and in general , smaller electric vehicles used in warehouses , such as forklifts , are powered by either lead-acid batteries or lithium-ion ( li-ion ) batteries . Both types of battery have their benefits , with lead-acid batteries requiring less complex monitoring and management systems than li-ion batteries , but li-ion batteries having significantly faster charging capabilities . Leadacid batteries are also much bigger in size and weight than li-ion batteries , and although this can be paradoxically advantageous if the battery also functions as ballast weight , this is not the case for most other vehicle types where the higher energy density of li-ion cells is preferred . Finally , lead-acid batteries have a lower up-front cost , but li-ion batteries have a significantly longer cycle-life , meaning they require replacement less regularly .
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