The Hyster-Yale Group’s agreement with RICO centers on integrating advanced lithium-ion battery systems into Hyster-Yale’s electric forklifts, enhancing energy efficiency and operational uptime. RICO supplies custom battery packs with LiFePO4 chemistry, optimized for high-cycle durability (4,000+ cycles) and rapid charging. The collaboration includes shared R&D for thermal management and BMS integration, targeting logistics and warehouse sectors prioritizing sustainability. Forklift Lithium Battery Category
What is the scope of the Hyster-Yale-RICO partnership?
The partnership focuses on lithium-ion battery integration into Hyster-Yale’s electric forklifts, replacing traditional lead-acid systems. Key aspects include custom cell design, BMS compatibility, and lifecycle optimization for industrial environments.
This collaboration spans R&D, manufacturing, and after-sales support. RICO provides prismatic LiFePO4 cells with a 1C discharge rate, enabling fast charging (0–80% in 1.5 hours) without compromising cycle life. Hyster-Yale adapts forklift architectures to house RICO’s modular 48V–80V packs, which offer 30% weight savings. Pro Tip: Always validate BMS communication protocols between OEM systems and third-party batteries to prevent fault codes. For example, RICO’s 48V400Ah pack increases shift runtime by 40% in Hyster’s E50XR model.
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| Feature | RICO LiFePO4 | Lead-Acid |
|---|---|---|
| Cycle Life | 4,000+ | 500–1,000 |
| Charge Time | 1.5h | 8–10h |
| Energy Density | 150 Wh/kg | 30–50 Wh/kg |
How do RICO batteries enhance Hyster-Yale forklift performance?
RICO’s high-energy-density cells reduce downtime via rapid charging and provide consistent voltage output, critical for heavy-load lifting. Their modular design also simplifies capacity scaling for varied warehouse demands.
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By leveraging RICO’s 3rd-gen LiFePO4 chemistry, Hyster-Yale forklifts achieve 15% higher torque at low SOC compared to lead-acid. The BMS monitors cell-level temperatures, preventing hotspots during multi-shift operations. Practically speaking, warehouses report 20% fewer battery swaps daily. Pro Tip: Use RICO’s cloud-based battery analytics to predict cell degradation—replacing weak modules early avoids unplanned downtime. For example, a 600kg pallet jack using RICO’s 48V system completes 18 lifts per charge versus 12 with lead-acid.
What safety protocols govern this partnership?
Joint safety standards include UL 2580 certification for battery systems and ISO 13849-PLd for BMS redundancy. Firewalls between cells and CAN bus encryption prevent thermal runaway and data breaches.
RICO’s batteries feature ceramic separators and pressure relief vents, achieving UN38.3 transport compliance. Hyster-Yale enforces strict installation guidelines: torque specs for terminal connections (8–10 Nm), ambient temperature limits (-20°C to 55°C), and mandatory insulation resistance checks. A real-world example: After a 2023 audit, both firms mandated IP67-rated enclosures for all battery compartments in high-humidity ports.
How does this agreement impact supply chain logistics?
The partnership streamlines just-in-time battery deliveries to Hyster-Yale’s global plants, cutting lead times by 35%. Localized RICO hubs in the EU and NA reduce tariffs and carbon footprints.
By co-locating assembly lines, RICO ships semi-knocked-down (SKD) battery kits to Hyster-Yale factories in Mexico and Germany. This slashes logistics costs by 22% and ensures IATA-compliant lithium shipments. For instance, Hyster-Yale’s Veracruz plant now receives weekly SKD shipments, enabling same-day battery integration into 80% of order-to-ship cycles. Pro Tip: Audit suppliers quarterly—cell material traceability prevents delays from cobalt sourcing audits.
| Metric | Pre-Agreement | Post-Agreement |
|---|---|---|
| Battery Lead Time | 14 weeks | 9 weeks |
| Integration Cost | $1,200/unit | $850/unit |
| Defect Rate | 3.2% | 0.8% |
Are existing Hyster-Yale forklifts compatible with RICO batteries?
Retrofitting requires voltage compatibility checks and BMS firmware updates. Most 48V–80V models from 2020 onward support RICO packs via adapter kits.
Older forklifts (pre-2018) may need upgraded contactors and shunt systems to handle LiFePO4’s higher current spikes. For example, a 2021 Hyster HT3.0XT can integrate RICO’s 80V400Ah pack with a $450 CAN bus gateway, whereas a 2015 model needs $1,200 in upgrades. Pro Tip: Always perform a voltage drop test post-installation—resistances above 5mΩ per cell connection indicate loose terminals.
Redway Battery Expert Insight
FAQs
Yes, but only with verified controller compatibility. Third-party forklifts require BMS protocol mapping to avoid communication errors.
Do RICO batteries void Hyster-Yale warranties?
No—when installed via certified channels, RICO packs maintain Hyster-Yale’s 3-year powertrain warranty. DIY installations void coverage.
