Manitou believes in ion-lith batteries

Why is a joint venture being established to produce batteries for Manitou ‘s internal use? It’s well-known that the French company is one of the European automotive manufacturers most attuned to new mobility trends, as highlighted by significant strategies announced in recent years and numerous awards won (such as the one related to hydrogen projects). But that it could raise the bar even further by signing a joint venture dedicated to lithium-ion batteries with one of the largest forklift manufacturers—well, that was definitely less predictable.

The Manitou Group has, in fact, announced the signing of a historic agreement with the Hangcha Group, a world-renowned industrial vehicle manufacturer. The joint venture between the Manitou and the Chinese manufacturer, based in France, is expressly dedicated to the production and distribution of lithium-ion batteries. These are considered fundamental for powering newly designed telehandlers and aerial work platforms.

Manitou batteries, for the Electrification of Machinery

From a joint statement, it’s understood that the formation of this joint venture will become effective after review and approval by the relevant European competition authorities. Manitou Group and Hangcha Group have decided to combine their strengths, creating this joint venture, which will operate completely independently, to tackle the lithium-ion battery market and bring new solutions to customers.

The objective of this venture is to help customers upgrade their lead-acid battery-powered vehicles with longer-lasting lithium-ion batteries, thereby extending their operational life. New product ranges are also involved, particularly the Manitou ME LIFT forklifts, launched in late 2024. This initiative will directly support the Manitou Group’s strategic “LIFT” roadmap to expand its electric offering and achieve 28% of units sold by 2030.

Some comments

“This creation, undertaken with one of our long-standing partners, will allow us to accelerate the deployment of our electric industrial vehicle ranges, in line with the ambitions announced during the presentation of our new ‘LIFT’ roadmap,” stated Michel Denis, President and CEO of Manitou Group. “Hangcha’s expertise in battery production significantly increases our battery manufacturing capabilities and fully integrates with our low-carbon trajectory.“

His sentiment was echoed by Zhao Limin, President and General Manager of Hangcha Group. “Deepening our strategic cooperation with Manitou Group and jointly establishing a lithium battery production unit marks a new phase in the partnership between the two parties, representing a milestone in Hangcha’s global industrial layout. By leveraging Hangcha’s technological and manufacturing strengths in lithium battery solutions, we will collaboratively enhance the power system solution capabilities for new energy industrial vehicles. This partnership aligns perfectly with our common goals of accelerating electrification transformation and driving sustainable development, while providing robust support to the broader industrial vehicle market.“