The move follows extensive trials that proved the vehicles reduced emissions and provided a more efficient outlet for the electricity generated at its sites.
The decision to switch to electric was made after months of extensive market research and trialling of different electric forklift models to find an eco-friendly option that was easy to handle and efficient for the team. Linde Material Handling, one of the world’s largest manufacturers of forklift trucks, took first place with its new and improved ‘X Range’ of electric forklift, which are now pre-ordered ready for the busy year ahead.
Investing £900,000 into the Linde X Range electric forklift trucks is part of Russell Roof Tiles’ wider sustainability mission and falls in line with the latest announcement of their Net Zero 2040 pledge which they will implement over the next 18 years. The company began their sustainability mission five years ago and will continue long into the future, with the switch to electric being one of the small changes to come this year.
Bruce Laidlaw, Operations Director comments, “The switch to electric is key for us to continue reducing our emissions and forms part of our bigger picture to becoming Net Zero. After trialling the Linde electric forklift, we know it’s going to have a huge impact on reducing the local air pollution as they are completely emissions free. Our investment in the forklifts is another step towards our sustainability goal so we’re looking forward to receiving the new arrivals.”
The latest upgrade on the Linde X trucks brings many benefits from the new Linde technology including the load stability system and class leading operator ergonomics. The new Linde forklifts will be used across all three sites to enhance performance and stop harmful CO2 levels being produced into the air, as well as achieving long-term high productivity levels.
The battery-operated vehicles can perform beyond the limits of conventional electric trucks and can master steep gradients and operate within dusty and dirty environments.
Chris Probert, Account Manager at Linde Material Handling (UK) commented: “We are pleased to be part of Russell Roof Tiles’ pledge to become Net Zero by 2040.The introduction of our new electric trucks will play a big part in reaching this goal. We look forward to working together for many years to come.”
The new electric forklift trucks are set to arrive later this year and will create a more efficient and greener way of working for Russell Roof Tiles. The electric forklifts are an investment for the future and aim to encourage other industry frontrunners to follow their lead and shift to electric too.
Russell Roof Tiles provides roofing solutions for leading UK house builders and high-profile social housing and commercial projects, where sustainability and eco-credentials are of the utmost priority.
