Initial procurement cost variance
The initial procurement cost of lead-acid electric forklifts is relatively low, which is one of the main reasons why many companies choose them in the early stage. The purchase price of lithium-battery electric forklifts will be higher than that of lead-acid models due to battery technology and manufacturing costs. However, the procurement cost is only part of the cost of use, and it needs to be comprehensively considered in combination with various costs for subsequent long-term use.
Daily energy consumption cost comparison
In terms of daily energy consumption, the gap between the two is more obvious. Lead-acid batteries have a low energy conversion rate, large losses during charging, and a long charging time, usually 8-12 hours. Some companies need to be equipped with backup batteries to ensure the continuity of operation, which undoubtedly increases the additional energy consumption investment. Lithium batteries have a higher energy conversion rate and fast charging efficiency. Generally, fast charging can be completed in 1-2 hours, and no backup battery is required. In the long run, the electricity expenditure of lithium-battery models will be much less than that of lead-acid models.
Long-term maintenance cost variance
Maintenance cost is the key link to widen the gap between the two. Lead-acid batteries need regular maintenance operations such as hydration and balanced charging, and the battery life is relatively short. Generally, they need to be replaced in 3-5 years, and the cost of maintenance and replacement is not low cumulatively. Lithium batteries are basically maintenance-free types, without regular hydration and other operations, and the service life can reach 5-8 years. Only regular inspection of battery status is required, and maintenance costs are greatly reduced.
Life cycle costing
Overall, although the initial procurement cost of lithium-ion electric forklifts is high, the expenditure on daily energy consumption, long-term maintenance, etc. is less, coupled with a longer service life, the total cost of the whole life cycle is lower than that of lead-acid electric forklifts. The specific gap will vary depending on factors such as frequency of use and operating environment, but in most cases, the life cycle cost of lithium-ion models is about 20% -30% lower than that of lead-acid models.
