Jungheinrich Erd 220i
Violet Mcdow
With the new ERE 225i and ERD 220i Jungheinrich sets new standards for optimally protected yet super compact pallet trucks. The ERE 225i handles single loads up to 2.5 tons whilst the ERD 220i can handle two pallets of one ton each and up to 2 tons simultaneously. The performance is top notch.
With ride on pallet trucks it was always a matter of making choices: whether you go for compact, whether you go for safe, or whether you go for ergonomic. With the new ERD 220i and ERE 225i Jungheinrich is putting an end to this dilemma of compromise. The integration of the lithium-ion batteries, optionally one or two units of 130 Ah each, eliminates the need for a separate battery compartment. This results in a space gain of 300 mm, which is fully in favour of the very compact dimensions, optimum protection of the operator and improved ergonomics.
In this test, we look at two models at a time that are based on the same construction principle. The ERE 225i is a powered pallet truck for single loads up to 2.5 tonnes. The ERD 220i is almost identical but equipped with a lifting mast. Thanks to the additional lift on the support arms, this truck can carry two pallets at a time. The total load capacity is 2 tonnes. The ERD 220i is available with masts up to 3,760 mm, our test truck lifts to 2,010 mm.
Both truck models are available in two chassis variants: 1) a standard model with three-sided protection and a large step platform and 2) a super-compact model, with slightly reduced all-round protection and a slightly smaller step platform. To experience both types, we tested the standard model on the ERD 220i and the most compact on the ERE 225i.
After numerous trips, our conclusion is that both options are in no way inferior to each other. The working position on the compact version remains comfortable and you feel much better protected as an operator than on the conventional pallet truck with foldable platform. Comfort is also excellent, with the option of leaning against the side wall on either side. The handles ensure a good grip and control in any position. Both platforms are available with an optional spring system that can easily be adapted to the body weight by six rocker switches. We experience the system on the larger platform as very comfortable compared to the standard suspension on the smaller one.
The loading and unloading of lorries via the loading bay is known as one of the most stressful tasks in material handling. Jungheinrich therefore has additional options available to improve ergonomics. For example, the pallet trucks recognise when it is inside lorries by means of an ultrasonic sensor. The cleverly fitted work light switches on automatically and at the same time the truck reduces speed for safe passage through the loading bay. This ensures the best reduction of back strain. Also optional is a Floor-Spot LED light integrated into the side wall.
Another innovation on both models is the smartPILOT tiller control. We have already seen it on the Jungheinrich ERC 2i stacker. The electric steering is very intuitive and has a convenient automatic centre position for straight driving. The height is adjustable in four positions and the fork and mast lift (ERD 220i) are easy to control, even with one hand.
Also noticeable in the work area is the easy way of recharging the li-ion batteries. The new charging interface connects the truck quickly and easily to an external quick charger (up to 300 A). The built-in charger (25 A) is optionally available, which allows flexible use of any 230 V socket.
If we are driving the test with the ERD 220i in double-decker mode, then the additional functions of our test truck must also be mentioned. These are digital aids that monitor the combination of load weight and lifting height at a selectable load centre of 500, 600 or 700 mm (operationCONTROL) and various forms of lifting height preselection (positionCONTROL). During the double-decker test, we pick up the first load with the fork and lift it to 1,500 mm. Then we pick up the second load on the support legs and drive to the drop-off location. In total, we take up to 2 tonnes at a time and keep the load on the fork at 1,500 mm during transport. The simulated high stack forces us to drive extra cautiously around bends, after all, we are moving a whole stack. This approach will make it possible to test other double-decker trucks in the future, too, so that we have comparison material.
Despite the very quiet turns, the productivity improvement of double-deck transport is 31% compared to single-pallet transport. Because of the much more efficient transport, the energy consumption per 100 pallets is also lower than for single pallet handling. We arrive at a practical operating time of 8:36 hours at the most powerful position P3.
Conclusion: working with pallet trucks is no longer a compromise between safety, compactness and ergonomics. Thanks to the integration of the li-ion batteries the Jungheinrich ERD 220i and ERE 225i offer much more protection than the truck with foldable stand-on platform. As far as we are concerned, this type of pallet truck can be retired for good. The performance of both the ERD 220i and the ERE 225i is top-notch and provides a nice challenge for the competition. Who will follow?
In the second of our deep-dives looking at each of the IFOY Award nominated finalists ahead of the winners are announced at BMW World on 30th June, we look at the Jungheinrich ERD 220i Ride-on Electric Pallet Stacker, the second of two entries in the Special Vehicle / Warehouse Truck category.
The Jungheinrich ERD 220i stands for uncompromising quality in every dimension. Thanks to the new lithium-ion battery concept, the dimensions of the truck are ultra-compact, while at the same time the fixed platform offers high side protection on three sides and maximum space in the generous operator workplace. This triad, combined in just one vehicle, makes our double-deck stacker the most perfect in its class.
Until recently, you had to make a choice when it came to ride-on pallet trucks: Either go for compact or go for safe or go in the ergonomic direction. With the new ERD 220i, Jungheinrich puts an end to the dilemma of compromise.
Thanks to the integration of the lithium-ion batteries, optionally one or two units with 130 Ah each, the need for a separate battery box is eliminated. This results in a space gain of 300 millimetres, which is entirely due to the very compact dimensions, optimum operator protection and improved ergonomics.
Another innovation of the lift truck is the smartPILOT tiller steering. The electric steering is very intuitive and has a convenient automatic centre position for straight-line travel. The height is adjustable in four positions and the fork and lift mast are also easy to operate with one hand. The new charging interface connects the truck quickly and easily to an external fast charger (up to 300A). An integrated charger (25A) is available as an option, offering flexibility at any 230V socket.
A pallet truck with double-deck function has made its debut in the IFOY test. So there is no comparison material, but the ERD 220i moves all loads that are also used in regular pallet truck tests easily and smoothly.
Looking through the optional, extra-reinforced grey protective grille in the mast sometimes makes it difficult to see the fork tips, which are also grey, properly. A contrasting colour may be less beautiful, but is perhaps more practical, says the test team. By the way, the ERD 220i is equipped with a transparent plastic screen as standard.
The operationCONTROL assistance system monitors the combination of load weight and lift height at a self-selectable load centre of gravity at 500, 600 or 700mm. The funktion positionCONTROL offers various options for lift height preselection. Both digital assistance systems prove useful in the double stick test. In this test, a productivity increase of 31 percent was found compared to the transport of a single pallet. Due to the much more efficient transport, the energy consumption per 100 pallets is also lower. The practical operating time in the most powerful mode (P3) is thus up to eight hours and 36 minutes.
Working with pallet trucks is no longer a compromise between safety, compactness and ergonomics. With the new ERD 220i, Jungheinrich sets new standards for a safe, optimally protected and yet super-compact electric pallet truck. The performance is first class and challenges the competition.
Market relevance: Intensive handling of goods via trucks and pallets as well as internal transport operations are the strength of the ERD 220i from Jungheinrich. The pallet stacker meets the increasing demands in terms of safety and space requirements in this area with flying colours. It is therefore seen to have a very high market relevance. The clear advantages of the truck mean that existing products are being replaced or are no longer attractive for the flexible tasks required.
Customer benefit: The ERD 220i gives the user more flexibility and safety. The compactness, which is unique in this class, increases manoeuvrability while maximising safety for the operator. The side and rear protection around the stand-on platform are only found on comparable machines with a greater overall length of 20 centimetres or more. In view of the tight space conditions when loading and unloading trucks, these are decisive advantages for the customer. In addition, the employees are supported by intelligent functions, thus meeting the requirements for ergonomics.
Novelty: The combination of compactness, safety and ergonomics is without doubt new in this class. The integrated solution for Li-Ion batteries, which has already been implemented in other types of equipment, has been implemented for the first time in the ERD 220i and leads to clear advantages. Innovative functions such as an ultrasonic sensor for speed reduction and lighting when driving over trucks underline the innovative character of the device.
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