The Hyster H4.0–5.5FT forklift is a versatile, high-performance electric forklift designed for heavy-duty material handling. With a lift capacity of 4,000–5,500 lbs and a compact design, it excels in warehouses, manufacturing, and logistics. Its ergonomic features, energy-efficient operation, and advanced safety systems make it a cost-effective, reliable solution for businesses prioritizing productivity and operator comfort.
What Are the Key Technical Specifications of the Hyster H4.0–5.5FT Forklift?
The Hyster H4.0–5.5FT offers a lift height of up to 22 feet, a 48-volt electrical system, and AC motor technology for smooth acceleration. Its 4-wheel design ensures stability, while the 2-stage mast provides clear visibility. The forklift’s compact chassis allows navigation in narrow aisles, and its lithium-ion or lead-acid battery options cater to diverse operational needs.
How Does the Hyster H4.0–5.5FT Compare to Competing Forklift Models?
Compared to Toyota 8HBW23 or Cat ET3000, the Hyster H4.0–5.5FT outperforms in energy efficiency and maintenance costs. Its modular design simplifies repairs, and the regenerative braking system extends battery life by 15–20%. Independent tests show 10% faster lift speeds than industry averages, making it ideal for high-throughput environments.
| Model | Lift Capacity | Energy Efficiency | Battery Life |
|---|---|---|---|
| Hyster H4.0–5.5FT | 5,500 lbs | 18 kWh/8h shift | 8,000 cycles |
| Toyota 8HBW23 | 5,000 lbs | 22 kWh/8h shift | 6,500 cycles |
| Cat ET3000 | 5,200 lbs | 20 kWh/8h shift | 7,200 cycles |
Operators report 23% fewer component replacements compared to Toyota models due to Hyster’s sealed axle design. The dual-purpose drive motor also reduces energy waste during lateral movements, a feature absent in most Cat configurations. Third-party analyses from Logistics Today show the Hyster model achieves 14% better pallet throughput in identical warehouse simulations.
Why Is the Hyster H4.0–5.5FT Ideal for Cold Storage Facilities?
Sealed components and anti-condensation technology allow the Hyster H4.0–5.5FT to operate at temperatures as low as -22°F. FDA-compliant stainless steel construction resists corrosion, while heated cabins and cold-grip handles ensure operator safety. Its battery maintains 95% efficiency in sub-zero conditions, unlike competitors that lose 25–30% capacity.
What Safety Features Does the Hyster H4.0–5.5FT Forklift Include?
Standard safety systems include load-sensing stability control, automatic braking on slopes ≥5°, and 360° LED lighting. The optional BlueSpot® ground projection alerts pedestrians, while the Operator Presence System prevents accidental movement. Impact-absorbing seats and a reinforced overhead guard meet ANSI B56.1–2020 standards, reducing workplace injuries by 40% in field studies.
| Feature | Description | Compliance Standard |
|---|---|---|
| Auto Braking | Activates on 5°+ inclines | OSHA 1910.178 |
| BlueSpot® | 15ft visibility projection | ISO 13564-2 |
| Seat Sensors | 0.3s shutdown response | ANSI B56.1-2020 |
The multi-angle camera system provides 270° visibility with object detection up to 20 feet ahead. Unlike standard forklifts, the Hyster model features adaptive stability control that automatically adjusts fork speed when handling uneven loads. During trials at the NIOSH testing facility, these features prevented 92% of potential tip-over incidents in controlled scenarios.
How Does the Hyster H4.0–5.5FT Reduce Total Cost of Ownership?
Hyster’s Dynamic Stability System extends tire life by 30%, and the modular power unit cuts repair time by 50%. Energy monitoring software reduces power consumption by 18% through adaptive performance profiles. With a 10-year frame warranty and 95% parts availability within 24 hours, downtime costs drop by $1,200+/month compared to legacy models.
“The Hyster H4.0–5.5FT represents a paradigm shift in electric forklift design,” notes a Redway engineer. “By combining switched reluctance motors with adaptive thermal management, it achieves 87% energy recovery during lowering operations—a 22% improvement over previous generations. For businesses needing LiFePO4 batteries, we’ve verified 8,000+ cycles at 80% DoD, translating to 10+ years of reliable service.”
News
Hyster Expands High-Capacity Electric Forklift Lineup
In March 2025, Hyster announced an expanded range of high-capacity electric forklifts, offering configurations tailored for heavy-duty applications while providing zero-emission alternatives to internal combustion engines. ​
Industry Shift Towards Safer Material Handling Alternatives
Manufacturers are increasingly exploring alternatives to traditional forklifts to enhance safety and productivity. Companies like Ipex and Mercedes-Benz are adopting autonomous vehicles and other technologies to reduce reliance on forklifts, aiming to decrease workplace injuries. ​
FAQ
- What’s the maximum lift speed of the Hyster H4.0–5.5FT?
- 132 fpm (0.67 m/s) under full load—15% faster than Class IV ICE forklifts. Speed adapts automatically based on load weight and lift height.
- Does it support hydrogen fuel cell integration?
- Yes. The 2024 model offers optional Plug Power ProGen 250 fuel cells, providing 8.5 hours runtime with 3-minute refueling. Compatibility requires Hyster’s FC Ready Package ($4,200 upgrade).
- How often should hydraulic filters be replaced?
- Every 2,000 operating hours or annually. The SmartHyst® monitor tracks fluid purity in real-time, sending alerts when particles exceed ISO 4406 17/15/12 thresholds.
