DACHSER introduces lithium-ion batteries in European transit terminals

DACHSER

After almost two years of development and testing at selected sites, ERDi from Jungheinrich, a completely redesigned double-deck unit specially adapted for use at DACHSER, can now be deployed in all of its European branches. Development was driven by driver ergonomics, occupational safety, and profitability.

The new Jungheinrich ERDi with permanently integrated lithium-ion battery shaved off 30cm from the length of its predecessor. This new development thus also marks the gradual farewell to the lateral battery change, which was previously necessary in multi-shift operation to ensure a sufficient power supply.

Using units with the new, more powerful, and largely maintenance-free lithium-ion batteries requires changes to the charging infrastructure. DACHSER is therefore converting its branches in Europe accordingly.

“By permanently integrating a lighter lithium-ion battery that takes up less space, we were able to develop a new vehicle chassis that is significantly shorter than the vehicles that have been used to date. Those are designed for lateral replacement of their lead-acid batteries,” explains André Bilz, Team Leader Fleet Management Terminal Equipment at DACHSER.

DACHSER claims this is the first time that it has been possible to build a tiller-guided machine that has a protective, closed driver’s cab and can still operate in the two-meter aisles in DACHSER’s transit terminals. Earlier solutions with a lateral operating concept and steering wheel operation, known as sideloaders, had not found widespread acceptance among drivers.

Source: DACHSER