Container handling equipment provider General Heavy Marine (GHM) is proud to announce the launch of the new SANY electric forklift range, bringing world-class electric material handling technology to South African businesses seeking greater efficiency, lower operating costs, and a reduced environmental footprint.

As industries worldwide accelerate their transition toward cleaner and more sustainable operations, electric-powered equipment is rapidly becoming the preferred choice for logistics companies, warehouses, ports, manufacturing facilities, and distribution centres. The introduction of the electric forklift range represents a significant step forward for South African businesses looking to modernise their fleets without compromising on performance.

The new range combines SANY's renowned engineering excellence with advanced lithium battery technology, offering a powerful alternative to traditional diesel and LPG forklifts.

Built for Performance

One of the most impressive aspects of the electric forklift range is its ability to match and, in many cases, exceed the performance of conventional internal combustion engine forklifts.

The range covers capacities from 2-t to 8-t models, allowing customers to select equipment that precisely matches their operational requirements. Popular models include the SCP30 series (3-t), SCP35 series (3.5-t), SCP40C6 (4-t), SCP50C6 (5-t), and the heavy-duty SCP80C6 (8-t). Standard lift heights are available from 3 m with a range of mast configurations to suit different applications.

Powered by high-voltage lithium battery systems, these forklifts deliver impressive acceleration, lifting capability, and travel speeds exceeding 22 km/h. Electric motor efficiency exceeds 94%, providing operators with responsive handling and exceptional productivity throughout the workday.

Fast Charging, Maximum Uptime

A key concern for many businesses considering electric equipment is operational uptime. SANY has addressed this challenge with fast charging technology designed to keep forklifts working rather than waiting.

The new electric forklifts can achieve a full charge in about one hour while providing up to eight hours of operational runtime under normal working conditions. This allows businesses to maintain productivity throughout multiple shifts while significantly reducing fuel costs and maintenance requirements.

The advanced lithium battery technology also eliminates many of the maintenance requirements associated with lead-acid batteries, helping operators reduce downtime and improve overall fleet availability.

Designed for Tough Operating Conditions

While electric equipment is often associated with indoor warehouse environments, the electric forklift range has been engineered to perform in demanding industrial applications.

The forklifts can operate in temperatures ranging from -30 °C to 50 °C and offer gradeability exceeding 20%, making them suitable for challenging environments including logistics yards, manufacturing facilities, ports and heavy industrial sites.

For example, the SCP40C6 features a 4-t lifting capacity, a 3-m standard lift height, a turning radius of 2 450 mm, and a 40.8 kWh battery system. The SCP50C6 extends lifting capacity to 5 t while maintaining excellent manoeuvrability and efficiency.

These capabilities ensure customers can confidently transition to electric power without sacrificing operational performance.

Smart Technology for Modern Operations

Beyond its electric powertrain, the range introduces advanced digital technologies designed to enhance safety, fleet management, and operational efficiency.

Integrated cloud-based connectivity enables remote monitoring, fault diagnosis, over-the-air software updates, vehicle locking functions, driver identification, and operational status tracking. Some configurations also support 360° visibility systems and active safety protection features.

These intelligent systems provide fleet managers with greater visibility into equipment use while reducing maintenance costs and improving workplace safety.

Lower Total Cost of Ownership

The financial benefits of electric forklifts continue to drive adoption globally, and the SANY range delivers significant advantages in this area.

Compared with diesel-powered forklifts, electric models eliminate fuel costs, reduce routine servicing requirements, and contain fewer moving parts that require maintenance. This translates directly into lower operating expenses over the life of the machine.

SANY further reinforces customer confidence by offering battery warranties of up to five years or 10 000 operating hours, demonstrating the company's commitment to long-term reliability and performance.

The launch of the electric forklift range aligns with GHM's commitment to supporting South African industries as they pursue sustainability goals and improve operational efficiency.

As environmental regulations tighten and businesses increasingly focus on reducing carbon emissions, electric material handling equipment presents a practical and commercially viable solution. By eliminating tailpipe emissions and significantly reducing noise levels, electric forklifts create cleaner and safer working environments while contributing to broader environmental objectives.

The arrival of the electric forklift range marks the beginning of a new era for material handling in South Africa. Combining robust performance, advanced lithium battery technology, intelligent fleet management systems, and lower operating costs, these machines offer businesses a future-ready solution for today's operational challenges.

Through GHM's nationwide sales, service and support network, customers can now access a comprehensive range of electric forklifts backed by expert technical support and industry-leading service.

The future of material handling is electric—and with GHM, that future has officially arrived.