Hyundai Material Handling completes B-X forklift range as electrification expands into heavier duty applications
The completion of Hyundai Material Handling’s B-X electric forklift range marks another step in the ongoing electrification of heavy duty material handling equipment. With the introduction of the 10 to 13 tonne and 16 to 18 tonne models, Hyundai now offers a high voltage electric counterbalance forklift range covering capacities from four to 18 tonnes, extending electric forklift availability into applications traditionally served by diesel powered trucks.
The B-X programme was introduced in stages, beginning with the four to nine tonne models launched in 2025. The latest additions, comprising the 100B-X, 120B-X and 130B-X LC600 models together with the 160B-X and 180B-X LC600, complete the range and bring high voltage electric forklifts into applications requiring higher lifting capacities and intensive outdoor operation.
While electric forklifts are now well established in lower capacity warehouse and industrial applications, electrification becomes more complex as lifting capacities, operating hours and environmental demands increase. Higher capacity trucks require significantly more power and battery capacity, while many of these applications involve continuous outdoor operation in changing weather conditions.
High voltage battery architecture is one of the key technologies enabling this transition. Hyundai’s B-X range uses high voltage systems ranging from approximately 309-348V in the four to nine tonnes models to 618V in the 10 to 18 tonnes machines. The higher operating voltage enables the forklifts to deliver the power levels required for intensive handling operations, while reducing electrical current, lowering heat generation and improving overall energy efficiency.
The heavier B-X models have been developed specifically for sectors where diesel forklifts remain widely used, including ports, shipbuilding, timber processing, metal production, construction materials, manufacturing and logistics operations. In such applications, equipment is expected to operate outdoors throughout the year, often in rain, cold temperatures and dusty environments.
To meet these demanding requirements, Hyundai combines established chassis and mast architectures with dedicated electric drivetrains, battery systems and control technology. Key components are protected to IP67, while selected electronic systems achieve IP69K protection. The battery system combines liquid cooling with dedicated thermal management and integrated heating, to maintain battery operating temperatures across a wide range of conditions. The trucks have also undergone environmental testing, including water spray, flooding and cold climate endurance assessments.
A further objective has been to deliver performance comparable with diesel powered equipment. Hyundai reports that the trucks use water cooled permanent magnet motors and advanced control systems designed to provide travel speeds, lift speeds and gradeability comparable with diesel powered equivalents. The use of high voltage architecture also supports fast charging capability and extended operating times, allowing the trucks to be integrated into intensive multi-shift operations where appropriate charging infrastructure is available.
Commenting on the completion of the range, Raymond Galavazi, senior product manager at Hyundai Material Handling Europe, said: ‘Completing the B-X range means that electrification is no longer limited to the lower capacity forklift segments. Customers across a wide range of industries can now consider high voltage electric trucks from four to 18 tonnes, also for demanding outdoor applications where high capacity and intensive operation are required.’
The completion of the B-X range reflects a wider trend within the European material handling sector, as electric powertrains gradually move beyond warehouses and distribution centres into heavier duty industrial applications previously considered difficult to electrify.
