Marble Hall Citrus Transforms Operations with EP Equipment’s Lithium-Ion Forklifts

Marble Hall Citrus, a leading citrus packhouse in South Africa, traditionally relied on diesel forklifts for its operations. Facing challenges such as rising fuel costs and maintenance issues, the company partnered with EP Equipment and Orizen Group to transition to lithium-ion powered forklifts. This shift aimed to enhance efficiency and reduce operational costs.

Overcoming Initial Skepticism

Initially, there was skepticism about the performance of electric forklifts compared to their diesel counterparts, especially in high-demand environments like citrus packhouses. However, after integrating EP Equipment’s lithium-ion forklifts, Marble Hall Citrus experienced significant improvements in performance and reliability.

Financial Benefits Realized

The transition to lithium-ion forklifts resulted in substantial cost savings for Marble Hall Citrus: Fuel Savings: Elimination of diesel consumption led to reduced fuel expenses. Maintenance Reduction: Fewer breakdowns and lower maintenance costs were observed. Fleet Optimization: Smarter fleet management allowed for a reduction in fleet size without compromising output. These savings were quantified by installing kilowatt meters on charging points, enabling precise measurement and comparison with previous diesel usage.

Operational Efficiency and Performance

The lithium-ion forklifts provided by EP Equipment demonstrated: Consistent Power: Reliable performance during long shifts and heavy loads. Extended Battery Life: Batteries lasted through demanding operations without frequent recharging. Enhanced Productivity: Increased throughput and reduced downtime. These factors contributed to a more efficient and productive operation at Marble Hall Citrus.

Environmental and Strategic Advantages

The switch to electric forklifts aligned with environmental sustainability goals: Zero Emissions: Elimination of diesel emissions contributed to a cleaner environment. Regulatory Compliance: Adherence to environmental regulations was ensured. Future-Proofing: Positioned the company for future technological advancements and sustainability initiatives. Strategically, the move to lithium-ion forklifts supported long-term operational goals and enhanced the company’s competitive edge in the industry.

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