French equipment manufacturer Manitou has recently announced a joint venture with Chinese forklift manufacturer Hangcha, with the goal of developing and manufacturing advanced lithium-ion batteries to support the electrification of heavy material handling equipment. This partnership marks a significant step towards transitioning to more sustainable power sources in the industrial vehicle sector.
Manitou, a well-established player in the Western market, has joined forces with Hangcha, a leading forklift manufacturer with a rich history dating back to 1956. Hangcha has made a name for itself by developing its own material handling solutions and is currently ranked as the world’s eighth-largest industrial vehicle manufacturer. The joint venture aims to upgrade existing fleets of lead-acid battery-powered vehicles with longer-lasting lithium-ion batteries, extending their operational lifespan and paving the way for future diesel retrofits and new product development.
According to Zhao Limin, Chairman and General Manager of Hangcha Group, this partnership represents a significant milestone in the collaboration between the two companies. By leveraging Hangcha’s expertise in lithium battery solutions, the joint venture aims to enhance the power systems of new energy industrial vehicles and accelerate the electrification transformation in the industry. The ultimate goal is to drive sustainable development and provide robust support to the broader industrial vehicle market.
Once production commences, the joint venture factory will play a crucial role in supporting Manitou Group’s “LIFT” strategic roadmap. This roadmap aims to expand Manitou’s electric vehicle lineup, including telehandlers and forklifts, with the aim of having electric vehicles account for 28% of total unit forklift sales by 2030. Hangcha Group has also expressed its commitment to achieving 100% electric operations by the end of 2025, aligning with the industry’s shift towards cleaner energy sources.
The joint venture plans to recruit a range of employees, including engineers, operators, sales representatives, and after-sales service technicians. Le Mans Metropole will support the recruitment process and assist in the local integration and training of future employees, ensuring a skilled workforce to drive the success of the partnership.
As the industrial vehicle sector continues to embrace electrification, partnerships like the one between Manitou and Hangcha are essential for driving innovation and sustainability in the industry. By combining their expertise and resources, the two companies are poised to make significant strides in advancing the adoption of lithium-ion batteries and accelerating the transition to electric power in heavy material handling equipment.
