Hyundai upgrades 3- and 4-wheel E-forklifts to the next level

Press release

Hyundai Material Handling has thoroughly re-engineered the very successful U series of its electrically driven 3- and 4-wheel forklifts. The further development focuses on comfort, performance, and reduced energy consumption.

March 22, 2020 1 min read

Hyundai’s New -9U Electric Forklift Series: Built for Performance, Efficiency, and Safety

The 3-wheel forklifts 15BT-9U / 18BT-9U and 20BT-9U in the load capacity range from 1,500 to 2,000 kg are ready for the world market with their high-performance components. New features include the Zapi controllers of the ACE series, the Schabmüller drive motors, and the low-noise ZF drive train. The new motors are also more powerful (drive motors 2 x 5.4 kW, lifting motor 14.9 kW). The Zapi ACE controllers, with IP65 protection, are taking care of the improved and more gentle control of the motors.

The electrical steering – using energy only when the steering wheel is operated – reduces energy consumption by up to 33%. The steering feedback control is proportional to the travel speed, ensuring safe and comfortable travelling up to 16 km/h. Another excellent new feature is the auto parking function, which enables the electromagnetic brakes as soon as the accelerator pedal is released. This safety feature prevents the truck from rolling backwards on gradients and ramps when idle.

• 15BT-9U batteries from 525 Ah up to 602 Ah (Li-Ion 376 Ah)
• 18BT-9U & 20BT-9U batteries from 625 Ah to 750 Ah (Li-Ion 470 Ah)

Advanced Technology and Operator-Focused Features

The 4.3-inch touch screen dashboard is anti-glare and easy to access. At a glance, the driver gets an overall view of the truck status. Three predefined drive modes can be selected according to the driver’s preferences. Easy troubleshooting is possible thanks to the diagnostic tool, which displays an error code on the screen and guides engineers when maintenance is required.

The OPSS (Operator Presence Sensing System) is another important safety feature that disables all hydraulic and driving functions when the operator is not seated.

For all 3-wheel forklifts, Hyundai Material Handling offers Li-Ion batteries with NMC technology. The new -9U series is standard Li-Ion ready, meaning the trucks can operate with either lead-acid or Li-Ion batteries. The new -9U series trucks can lift loads up to a height of 7,000 mm.

Flexible Power Solutions and Versatile Applications for Modern Warehouses

The 4-wheel forklift models (25B-9U, 30B-9U and 35B-9U) cover load capacities from 2,500 to 3,500 kg at a 500 mm load centre. These high-performance 48V machines are equipped with electro-hydraulic servo steering, saving up to 17% of energy. New low-noise hydraulic pumps further improve performance while reducing energy consumption.

The 25B-9U is powered by a 720 Ah / 48V battery, while the larger models feature batteries ranging from 810 Ah to 900 Ah. For these 4-wheel models, Hyundai also offers 564 Ah Li-Ion batteries using NMC technology.

All trucks come standard with side battery removal, while top loading is also available. In addition, all forklifts can be supplied with heated cabins, including single- and double-door configurations, providing comfort and flexibility for a wide range of operating environments.