A family-run logistics business continues to lead the way in promoting more sustainable fuel choices having become the first in the UK to adopt the next generation in environmentally responsible truck-mounted forklifts.
South West-based SAS Logistics are blazing the trail with zero emissions, all-electric drive, MOFFETT eSeries E4 25.3NX.
It is the latest step in the operator’s continuous drive for environmental change following their bold leap last year to adopt a new fuel source with the purchase of an LNG natural gas truck.
The world-leading, truck-mounted MOFFETT forklift is the next generation in electric machinery, boasting 4-wheel-steering, high-tech dash display and real-time operational insight. It was recently recognised at the ‘Oscars of intralogistics,’ the IFOY Awards, when named best-in-class in the category Special vehicle. Judges pointed to its winning attributes including safety features, economic efficiency and high performance.
“This is another big step for our company, but we firmly believe this is a step in the right direction,” explained Adam Spratt, who is responsible for business development at SAS Logistics, “the investments we are making in more sustainable machinery is sizeable, certainly when you compare the size of our business to our much larger competitors. But our belief is that change is needed to protect the environment and, financially, the investment is already starting to pay off.”
SAS Logistics was started by Adam’s father, Stephen, in 2002 as a single-vehicle and owner-driver operation and has grown to become a 22-strong fleet of arctic tractor units and trailers of mixed application, including timber-spec flats, curtainsiders and skeletal trailers. As well as hauling around 700 tonnes of industrial roundwood every week, it also handles peat, horticultural products, finished timber, construction materials and scrap metal.
Importantly, the MOFFET electric forklift is used for many drops in London, including refrigerated supermarkets at night and during the early hours, another key factor in their decision to purchase.
Adam added: “London is one of many cities that has imposed low emission zones and noise restrictions in particular areas, so the eSeries NX is ideal as it generates no emissions and very little noise. However, this is also about the bigger picture. As a family and a business, we recognise the challenges faced by society in reducing emissions. This latest addition to our fleet will help deliver our carbon reduction plan.”
Hiab salesperson, Huw Thomas, said: “Like a growing number of operators, SAS Logistics have recognised the environmental benefits in owning a MOFFETT eSeries, but they also understood the wider business benefits. Running costs are approximately 20% of a diesel equivalent and the machine has fewer moving parts that need to be maintained or replaced, greatly reducing service times and parts costs.
“They are truly leading the way when it comes to committing to a carbon reduction plan and Hiab is delighted to be part of that journey, with our range of machinery that is green in more ways than one!”
For more information about the MOFFETT eSeries NX visit: https://www.hiab.com/en/products/truck-mounted-forklifts/e-series
