3-Wheel Forklifts: What is it
What is a 3 Wheel Forklift?
As suggested by the name, 3-wheeled forklifts are forklifts equipped with three wheels instead of the standard four. These specialized forklift trucks are commonly used in warehouse and logistics settings due to their compact size, which offers maneuverability in tight spaces. Typically, a three-wheeled forklift features two front wheels and a single rear wheel, resembling a reverse tricycle configuration. This design concentrates extra power towards the rear, enhancing lifting and counterbalancing capabilities for smoother and more efficient lifting operations.
Key Benefits of 3 Wheel Forklifts
Better Manoeuvrability
The 3-wheel design offers a smaller turning radius due to their compact nature, making it easier to operate in tight spaces and narrow aisles.
Energy Efficiency
Due to the lighter weight and simplified design, 3 wheel forklifts usually consumes less energy compared to 4 wheel forklifts, which makes them more energy efficient.
In the long run, lower operational / energy costs can be achieved with a 3 wheel forklift.
Fast Acceleration
Due to the 3-wheel compact & light design and the extra power at the rear, 3 wheel forklifts typically allows for faster acceleration and deceleration, contributing to increased productivity in certain applications.
Better Visibility
The design of the 3-wheel forklifts provides enhanced visibility for the operator, increasing safety and accuracy during operations.
Key Limitation of 3 Wheel Forklifts
Terrain Limitation
3 wheel forklifts perform the best in indoor applications with smooth surfaces. When it comes to operations on uneven and rough terrains, 4 wheel forklifts with high ground clearance might be a better choice.
Driving a 3 wheel forklift in a warehouse with narrow aisles.
Ideal Applications
Narrow Aisles / Tight Spaces
The small turning radius (as small as 1450mm) makes them ideal for warehouses or logistic centers with limited space.
Indoor Application
If your business primarily operates indoors and requires manoeuvrability through tight spaces, on even floors, a 3-wheel forklift could be the optimal choice.
Relatively Light Load
For businesses that do not require heavy / bulky load operations (bigger than 2 ton), the agility of a 3-wheel forklift might be more advantageous.
Frequent Stops / Starts
For tasks that involve frequent stops and starts, such as loading and unloading, 3 wheel forklifts are ideal due to their fast acceleration & deacceleration.
Comparison with 4 Wheel Forklifts
While 4-wheel forklifts offer greater stability and load capacity, 3-wheel forklifts stand out for their maneuverability and efficiency in confined spaces. The 4-wheelers are better suited for uneven terrain and heavy loads, while the 3-wheelers are ideal for indoors and narrow aisles.
For full comparison of 3 wheel vs. 4 wheel forklifts, please see our article Differences between 3-wheels and 4-wheels Li-ion forklifts.
EP Equipment Spotlight: CPD15TVL
EP Equipment is a benchmark in the forklift market, offering innovative solutions that maximize efficiency and performance. The CPD15TVL electric forklift is the flagship of the company’s 3-wheeler lineup, designed to transform operations in restricted environments.
TVL Series: Innovation and Efficiency
The TVL series, fully designed around the advantages of lithium-ion technology, features a compact size ideal for narrow aisle applications, ensuring the ultimate in operating comfort and stability. This 3-wheel electric forklift is powered by dual motors, significantly increasing productivity.
Applications of CPD15TVL
Narrow Aisles
With a turning radius from 1450 mm, it is perfect for operations in limited spaces.
Loading/Unloading
It offers great performance in loading and unloading tasks at docks or side bay lorries, supported by its powerful 80V battery.
Rental Business
Its fast charging capacity makes it ideal for the rental market.
Key Highlights
Compact Size and Reduced Turning Radius
Allows for narrow aisle operations, maximizing operational comfort and stability.
Dual Motorization
Equipped with dual 80V and 2*5 kW motors, increasing productivity with up to 6 hours of continuous work per charge.
Spacious Legroom
Despite being a narrow-aisle forklift, it has an ergonomic design that offers great comfort to the operator.
In addition to CPD15TVL, EP Equipment offers CPD20L2, which shares many of the advantages of the TVL series, but with additional capabilities to suit an even wider range of applications.
EP Equipment’s 3-wheel forklifts, especially the CPD15TVL, represent the future of material handling in restricted environments. Combining superior maneuverability, energy efficiency, and operating comfort, these forklifts are an ideal choice for those looking to maximize productivity and reduce operating costs.