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.
And then the test itself. We have not tested pallet trucks with double-decker function before. This means we have no comparison, but the ERD 220i easily and smoothly moves all four of our loads that we use in the regular pallet truck test. We run the test both as a double-decker and as a ‘normal’ pallet truck for single loads. Our test truck is an ERD 220i in drivePLUS version. On the most powerful setting P3 it scores 11.2% higher productivity than the test average for its class in single handling and the second highest score ever. Thanks to li-ion technology, the test energy consumption at 100 pallets is 35% lower than the market average with lead-acid technology. With the maximum battery capacity of 260 Ah, we achieve a practical operating time of over 8 hours. Longer working hours are possible thanks to the possibility of fast and intermediate charging. In working modes P2 and P1, productivity remains high, and energy consumption drops even further. Practical operating time with a maximum of 260 Ah on board is 14:37 hours on P1. Disadvantage: The view through the grey, extra reinforced protective screen for tough applications in the mast sometimes makes it difficult to see the equally grey front ends. A contrasting colour might be less attractive, but might be more practical. As standard the ERD 220i comes with a transparent normal window screen.
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.
And then there’s the Jungheinrich ERE 225i, in drive&ecoPLUS version. The basic performance such as sprint and travel speeds are good for top scores in this class. The compact design makes the truck very easy to handle and extremely manageable. It’s no surprise that in terms of productivity, the ERE 225i on stand P3 resets the benchmark in this truck segment, moving 20% more pallets per hour than average and halving the average test energy consumption in the process. Even in the more economical P2 mode, performance stays on top level. And as mentioned before, the extremely compact size is not perceived as cramped, but as very practical, pleasant and purposeful.
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?
• Higher productivity
• Low energy consumption
• Ideal mix of protection and size
• Visibility contrast through (optional) protection rack of ERD 220i (grey on grey)
• Abrupt lowering start with load on ERD 220i
(Text and photos: Andersom Testing, Theo Egberts and Mark Dohmen)
Tags:
Andersom test, Andersom testing, ERD 220i, ERE 225i, Intralogistics, Jungheinrich, Jungheinrich ERD 220i, Jungheinrich ERE 225i, Pallet trucks, Pallettrucks, Test
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