Toyota Material Handling Embracing EV Technology

Columbus-based forklift manufacturer Toyota Material Handling says it making the largest product launch in company history with 22 new models, a move that also signals the manufacturer’s adoption of electric power. TMH says it is responding to growing demand for energy efficient machines.

The company says nearly 70% of all material handing products sold last year were electric. TMH expects that shift will continue for years for forklifts, lift trucks and pallet jacks.

For decades, their products relied on compressed natural gas (CNG) or liquid petroleum gas (LP).

“This is an exciting milestone for our company and our customers,” said Bill Finerty, TMH president and chief executive officer. “Never before has the global supply chain endured such challenges as those we presently face. Warehouses and distribution centers everywhere need material handling equipment that can help them keep pace with the speed of commerce.”

TMH says the additions to the lineup range in size and flexibility, responding to the various needs for customers. The company says it has responded to the growing logistics and warehousing industry.

“Material handling operations are being influenced by multiple mega trends, and we believe this historic product launch will provide our customers with the solutions they need to meet increasing throughput demands,” said Jaksa Pejnovic, TMH vice president of sales & marketing. “Consumer buying behaviors are forcing new warehousing strategies to keep up with the explosion of SKUs and the rapid rate of change.”