Radical Energy Design: trucks built around lithium-ion
Continuous improvement (kaizen) is our strength and part of Toyota Material Handling's DNA. We always ask ourselves: what comes next? So, we went looking for the possibilities of modular energy design to better meet customer needs and improve the user experience of our products in a project we named RED. RED stands for Radical Energy Design. Lithium-ion battery technology permits our engineers to define the best placement of the individual energy modules, giving our designers more freedom to optimise our products whilst keeping our customers' needs in mind.
Where it all started
Originally, the idea started with a very simple concept: how can we remove the standard battery box and find alternative locations for the individual energy modules? The individual cells make a lithium-ion solution customisable which allows us to put the battery modules where they fit best. The modular approach gives designers more creative flexibility to make a better selection of components. Instead of working with big, heavy blocks, we’re working with smaller modules, distributing the battery cells and their weight across the truck.
What’s in it for the user?
Designing a truck with the human being at the centre offers numerous user benefits. By locating modules efficiently, trucks can be made smaller and lighter, enhancing driveability and manoeuvrability, ideal for various applications. Applying a modular approach to the battery design allows to optimise the gravity centre of the trucks. Improved centre of gravity boosts performance, stability and traction. Compact, lightweight designs ensure better energy efficiency, while modular li-ion batteries provide fast charging and make servicing easier for technicians. A flexible energy source made up of multiple battery modules means power capacity can be scaled up or down according to operational needs. Perhaps the biggest benefit is that the trucks are safe and intuitive.
Continuing our design vision
In design, less is more equals minimalist forms, achieving simplicity and ease of use by eliminating rather than adding on. In product design, this translates into fewer components and a more efficient use of materials. By removing the traditional battery tank, we optimise the entire layout of our trucks. The symmetry of the design makes Toyota trucks both aesthetically pleasing and highly functional, providing both usability benefits and operational efficiency. Unmatched design that stands out and underscores our future direction.
Our RED products: diverse offerings
Our innovative product lineup with modular approach answers to a wide range of customer needs. From powered pallet trucks and stackers to electric counterbalanced forklifts, we have solutions designed to enhance productivity and streamline operations. Explore our products and discover how we can support your business with cutting-edge technology and reliable performance.
Pedestrian pallet trucks
The first trucks with the unique modular Lithium-ion design from Toyota
The Toyota BT Levio LWI160 pedestrian-operated powered pallet truck is the first truck we applied the Radical Energy Design (RED) to. The powered pallet truck is a versatile, much-used product, so optimising its design benefits many end users. Designed around a modular lithium-ion battery concept, it makes the truck very compact, light and energy efficient, which set new standards in the industry. The LWI160 offers excellent ergonomics with light steering and intuitive controls, low sound levels due to optimal component placement, and safety features including automatic speed reduction and foot injury prevention. As a smart truck, it gives customers detailed information instantly and remotely about the lithium-ion battery.
Stand-in powered pallet trucks
Designed with the driver in mind
The Toyota BT Levio LSI stand-in low lifter is a compact yet powerful electric truck that offers optimal safety and comfort while delivering. This compact truck guarantees excellent performance levels with high uptime thanks to a lithium-ion energy solution, ideal for effective handling of goods in tight spaces or in busy areas over long horizontal distances. With a lifting capacity up to 2 tonnes and a speed up to 12.5km/h, the low lifter is powerful and easy to operate. The enclosed driver compartment offers a safe and comfortable workstation and excellent visibility all around. The stand-in powered pallet truck is energy efficient, enabling cost and energy saving in most applications.
Stand-in pallet stackers
Designed around Li-ion battery technology
The Toyota BT Staxio SSI200D and SSI160LN both offer high visibility through the mast and great flexibility without compromising on safety. Both models provide a safe, comfortable and intuitive driving experience that allows for productive and efficient operations. Designed for high-intensity stacking applications, the Li-ion D-model can handle double EURO pallets with a load capacity of 1t on the forks and 1t on the support arms, which increases productivity. The SSI160LN model with its overhead guard offers a safe driving experience with excellent visibility all around. It’s ideal to stack loads at elevated heights up to 5.4m in very narrow aisles. The compact chassis is designed around Li-ion modular batteries, for lower weight and energy consumption.
Electric forklifts
Unmatched design and cutting-edge performance
The Toyota Traigo48 counterbalanced forklift remains a versatile all-rounder, achieving cutting-edge performance. The electric 48-Volt forklift also comes in a unique, unmatched design with integrated Li-ion battery, called Traigo_i. Inspired by the iconic shape of the katana, the dynamic frame line under the operator’s seat and the accentuated design of the cabin add to the pristine look. The small integrated Li-ion battery creates an airy and spacious interior, providing more legroom. Adding more space elevates driver comfort and productivity. Features such as a small steering wheel, low dashboard and armrest with integrated touchscreen provide exceptional ergonomics. The full-floating compartment, open on either side, significantly lowers the sound level and drastically reduces vibrations. SyncoDrive from Toyota lowers energy consumption for optimal efficiency and enhanced responsiveness.
Want to know more about Lithium-ion?
How do lithium-ion batteries work, how much do they cost, and are they better than traditional batteries? Check out our FAQ here.
In addition to above products, we have trucks exclusively available with Li-ion technology: our light-duty pallet truck BT Tyro 130B/150/160, our automated vehicle CDI120 and our semi-automated Radioshuttle.
Most of our range comes with a choice of traditional lead-acid and lithium-ion batteries.