The need for electrification and renewable energy sources has never been greater and battery development has never been more advanced or more effective given that lithium-ion technology is already considered one of the leading alternative energy sources.
The push for zero-emissions along with constantly evolving industry regulations mean that rental companies seeking to electrify their fleets face big decisions and a wealth of potentially confusing information. All while continuing to meet the fundamental need to remain cost-effective and maintain a positive brand image in a competitive marketplace. Businesses are investigating fresh ways to extend product lifecycle and minimise waste, with the resulting benefit of reduced total cost of ownership (TCO).
Critical factors rental companies must consider when investigating battery-powered equipment for their fleets and OEMs should have an eye on to achieve successful integration and adoption of their battery-powered products into the rental channel.
The rental industry historically faced challenges with non-standardised batteries for different machines, leading to complexity and cost implications.
Standardising batteries across all equipment brands can streamline operations, increase efficiency, and reduce the total cost of ownership for rental companies and OEMs.
One should consider the standardisation of batteries for the rental market from point of entry through to market exit, as it will specifically impact:
When transitioning to electrified equipment, considering total cost of ownership (TCO) is crucial. Comparing battery technologies thoroughly is essential, focusing on like-for-like comparisons. Lower upfront costs may not result in a lower TCO due to factors like shorter runtime or frequent recharging.
Understanding performance parameters like charge times and cycle life can significantly impact fleet TCO.
Lower purchase price seldom translates to a lower Total Cost of Ownership as one typically gets what they pay for.
Electrification aims for zero emissions to comply with industry regulations, providing a safer working environment. Laws on emissions are stricter, especially in urban areas, pushing for rental businesses to offer suitable machines. Noise reduction is crucial, allowing for broader machinery use, especially in emission-sensitive areas like town centers.
The Scorpick® ENTER pick & carry electric crawler crane, powered by Vanguard lithium-ion batteries, is used indoors in places like shopping centers or commercial buildings and is 6 times quieter than the diesel-powered model, with a noise reduction of 30dB.
For rental companies to maintain a competitive edge, they need to ensure breadth and depth in their product range to maximise their customer offering. This means: scalable battery power that can be applied to machines of different sizes, allowing for standardisation across different power requirements, is an obvious win.
As battery technology evolves, more and more electrified products will come to market and equipment ranges will continue to develop in parallel.
Case studies: Unique Projects. Big results.
Vanguard batteries are being integrated into an ever expanding portfolio of battery-driven rental applications across numerous brands and categories from small to medium sizes. Examples of these include small aerators or blowers, walk-behind trowels, wheelbarrows, grinders, all the way up to compact track loaders, mini cranes and light towers.
The concern that electrification could lead to a compromise on performance is a very real consideration for rental companies, however this does not have to be the case. To eliminate this costly and undesirable result, the best and most effective approach is to design for efficiency together with right sizing of the battery to ensure optimal performance with battery power - not just replacing petrol engines with a battery and hoping it runs long enough to get the job done!
A massive chance for OEMs to develop new products with new characteristics especially for the rental market.
To this end, Vanguard designs and manufactures its own integrated lithium-ion battery systems in-house, providing extensive power application engineering expertise to OEMs via its own Power Application Centre or via a world-class network of integration partners offering integrative and scalable battery solutions that can be tailored to a broad range of needs.
In Europe Vanguard collaborates with NOWOS to extend battery life through repair and remanufacturing, promoting a circular economy. This approach ensures batteries maintain performance and minimize environmental impact at their end of life.
Find out more about the innovative Vanguard commercial lithium-ion battery packs.
Find here for more deep dive information into battery technology and electrification:
The big 6 rental challenges in the energy transition
7 things OEMs must know about batteries and electrification
5 ways swappable batteries will change the power industry
Why equipment manufacturers are ditching lead-acid batteries for smart lithium solutions
OEM quick action guide for electrification projects
Swappable battery example: Upfront costs vs. TCO
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