HD Hyundai Site Solutions Launches 18-Ton Electric Forklift, Expands Large Model Lineup

Mass Production Begins for 10-18 Ton Large Models

18-Ton Model Can Operate up to 9 Hours on a Single Charge

Targeting Heavy-Duty Operations in Shipyards, Ports, and More

HD Hyundai Site Solutions has launched a range of large electric forklifts with capacities from 10 to 18 tons, expanding its electrified product lineup into heavy-duty work sites such as shipyards, ports, and steel mills.

16-ton large electric forklift launched by HD Hyundai Site Solutions. HD Hyundai Site Solutions

HD Hyundai Site Solutions announced on the 5th that it recently held a test drive event for its ‘next-generation electric forklift’ at its factory in Eumseong, Chungbuk, showcasing its lineup of large models.

Following the release of a mid-sized model last year, the company has now expanded its product range to include large models with capacities ranging from 10 to 18 tons. According to the company, HD Hyundai Site Solutions is the only domestic brand manufacturing electric forklifts over 10 tons in Korea.

The new products feature high-voltage battery systems and electric motors, delivering work speeds and gradeability on par with diesel forklifts. The largest 18-ton model can operate for up to nine hours on a single charge. When using a 120kW fast charger, the battery can be charged to 80% in about 1.5 hours. The 4.5-ton model can operate for up to 14 hours on a single charge.

Safety has also been enhanced. A system that monitors and controls the high-voltage circuit and battery status in real time has been applied, allowing the forklifts to obtain the ‘UL 2580’ certification, which is the U.S. battery system safety standard. They also feature waterproof and dustproof designs with a rating of at least IP67.

From an economic perspective, the company explained that a total cost of ownership (TCO) analysis based on medium-intensity operations shows that the initial price difference with diesel products can be offset in about two to three years.

According to market research firm Mordor Intelligence, the global electric forklift market is projected to grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 5.12%, rising from USD 52.55 billion in 2026 to USD 67.44 billion by 2031. Among this, the mid-to-large market for forklifts in the 5 to 15 ton range is expected to grow at a CAGR of 8.21% over the same period.

A representative from HD Hyundai Site Solutions stated, “The large, next-generation electric forklifts are products that, with performance comparable to internal combustion engine forklifts, can respond to environmental regulations without compromising productivity. We will enhance our global market competitiveness by providing electrification solutions tailored to various work environments.”

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.