Localization of 'Medium-to-Large Electric Forklifts'
11 Hours of Operation with a 1-Hour Charge
Expanding Demand at Shipyards and Beyond
HD Hyundai Site Solutions is set to become the first Korean company to introduce a 9-ton class electric forklift, officially launching the electrification of medium-to-large industrial vehicles.
On May 13, HD Hyundai Site Solutions announced that it will release eight new models of 4- to 9-ton electric forklifts to the global market next month. This marks the first time a Korean manufacturer has introduced electric forklifts with a capacity of over 5 tons.
HD Hyundai Site Solutions' medium-to-large electric forklift launching in June. Photo by HD Hyundai Site Solutions
The new products are equipped with high-performance lithium iron phosphate (LFP) batteries, enabling up to 11 hours of continuous operation on a single one-hour charge. By applying high-voltage batteries and high-efficiency permanent magnet motors, the forklifts deliver output comparable to diesel models. The design also features waterproof and dustproof protection rated at IP67 or higher. This ensures stable operation even in outdoor environments with frequent sea breezes or rain, and the forklifts have passed driving tests simulating submersion. For the first time in medium-to-large models, a 'Creep' function has been introduced, allowing low-speed driving without pressing the accelerator pedal.
Until now, electric forklifts have mostly been limited to small models for indoor use. However, with recent advancements in battery technology and the growing trend toward carbon neutrality, demand for electric models is increasing at shipyards, ports, and construction sites as well. According to market research firm The Business Research Company, the global electric forklift market is projected to grow from $73 billion in 2025 at an average annual rate of 12%, reaching $114.9 billion by 2029.
The company stated that this product launch will serve as a catalyst to lead the electrification of medium-to-large industrial vehicles and enhance the global competitiveness of Korean-made equipment. Heo Gwanghee, head of the Industrial Vehicle Division at HD Hyundai Site Solutions, said, "The new electric forklifts are the optimal equipment to meet the carbon reduction and ESG management needs of industrial sites," adding, "We will prove our technological capabilities in both domestic and international markets."
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