Toyota trialling lithium ion batteries for warehouse trucks
Toyota Material Handling is beginning a trial of new lithium ion technology in its trucks later this month.
The trial, in partnership with Sainsbury's, will take place in one of the retailer's largest distribution centres.
The name of the battery supplier is being kept under wraps for now, but Toyota told WM it has designed and developed the accompanying battery management system.
The trial will include a range of warehouse equipment including heavy-duty powered pallet trucks and horizontal order pickers.
Sam Coles (pictured), Toyota's commercial manager, said: ""When looking at trialling new battery technology, it is important that we work closely with one of our key customers, ensuring that we can supply a practical solution to working environments. Toyota and Sainsbury's share a similar focus in finding practical, long-term solutions in relation to new environmental innovations and this process is helping us to do that."
