Is a perfect storm set to wreck our love affair with diesel?

In contrast to almost all other European countries, the UK’s fondness for fossil-fuel powered lift trucks – particularly diesel – has barely faltered in the last seventeen years. From a 68% market share in 2001 to a 67% share in 2018. Mostly thanks to a loyal following amongst heavier applications and outdoor users.

However, a legislative storm is brewing that may challenge that. 

‘Stage V’ is the latest in a step-by-step EU programme aimed at reducing harmful emissions from the engines of non-road mobile machinery, which includes almost all material handling equipment.

In simple terms, the new rules officially come into effect between 2019 and 2020, depending on engine output power. Although manufacturers have been given a grace period, through the ‘Transition Scheme’, during which time they may continue to fit engines manufactured prior to the deadlines to their new machines. 

The legislation will only apply to brand new machines sold after the compliance deadlines. Any equipment purchased prior to these dates is unaffected, and may currently continue to be operated unhindered and without the need for modification.

It is worth noting that, whether we end up leaving the EU or not, it is most likely that the UK will still adopt this legislation. 

So what will these new rules mean for existing diesel and LPG truck users?

While the outlook for the fuel economy and productivity of the new machines looks sunny, in other areas new truck buyers will need to batten down the hatches. With legislative winds expected to push costs up significantly. The necessary addition of advanced electronic control systems and new emissions reduction technology, will result in each of these new generation machines costing thousands of pounds more than their predecessors.

The complexity of the new systems, together with the need for advanced computer diagnostic tools to monitor and maintain them, will also take away one of diesel lift trucks’ most endearing features – their ease and simplicity of maintenance. They will require more frequent servicing going forward, too.

LPG truck users, on the other hand, will enjoy calmer waters as the changes required to bring the previous generation of engine up to stage V compliance will be relatively small. As will be the likely increase in list price of the equipment. So it’s more or less business as usual here.

As a result, we expect that many diesel users will step across to LPG as an easily integrated progression. Avoiding the extra cost of the new diesels, while still enjoying a healthy improvement in their carbon footprint.

And as much as this new legislation may be a lightning bolt aimed at shocking IC users into embracing electric equipment, it actually is a very good time to consider changing. That’s because electric technology has recently leapt forward and redressed many of its previous shortfalls.

The latest range of 48 and 80 volt machines from Cat lift trucks, for example, match the performance of their diesel counterparts, yet offer significantly lower full life costs and require notably less maintenance. 

Their IP54 certification also means they can operate outdoors no matter what the weather. 

And it's not just the smaller electric machines that have moved the game on, Carer’s remarkable 96 and 120 volt heavy duty electric lift trucks, out-perform equivalent diesels in almost every parameter up to 16 tonne capacities. As well as delivering emissions-free operation and costing significantly less to run.

Even Konecranes, with their giant reach stackers, container handlers and industrial lift trucks now offer a hybrid power option. I’m sure it won’t be long before we see a fully electric machine at this end of the market too. 

So, the new legislation isn’t necessarily the end of our beloved diesels just yet. But even if it was, with so many good alternatives available, I think the forecast is looking pretty good.