What is the difference between a compact and a full-size 4-wheel forklift?
The five compact models (CPD L1, CPD FVL and EFLA251S, 1.5 to 2.5 tonnes) are built mainly for indoor floors: narrower, tighter turning and lifting up to 7.2 m. The 21 full-size EFL models (1.8 to 3.8 tonnes) have bigger tyres and more clearance for yards and ramps, and do the job of a diesel truck of the same size.
Should I choose a 4-wheel or a 3-wheel forklift?
If you lift high, cross dock plates or ramps, or carry 2 tonnes or more, choose 4 wheels for stability. If turning in the tightest aisles matters most, a 3-wheeler needs less space: EP's 2-tonne TVL201 needs a 3,315 mm aisle, the dual-drive CPD20FVL 3,472 mm and the CPD20L1 3,685 mm.
Can an electric forklift work outside in the rain?
Yes. The full-size EFL range is built for yards as well as warehouses, with cabs, lights and pneumatic tyres available on many models. The compact CPD L1 is rated IPX4 against splashing water, so rain at the loading door is fine. Tell us about your ground, ramps and weather and we'll recommend the right set-up.
Can an electric forklift replace my diesel forklift?
In most cases, yes. A full-size EFL lifts and drives like a diesel truck of the same size, with no exhaust. Check three things with us first: how steep your ramps are, how many hours the truck works, and where it will charge.
How steep a ramp can it climb?
With a full load, EP's figures are about 10% for the compact CPD L1 and CPD FVL, 17% for the EFLA251S, and from 15% on the X2 and standard EFL to 22% on the best P and Pro models. A ramp that rises 90 cm over 6 m is 15%. For a ramp you use all day, leave some margin, and tell us the ramp's length and height so we can check it.
What do X2, X5, S, P and Pro mean?
They are EP's versions within the full-size range. X2 is the entry model, with an 80V 100Ah battery and masts to 4.8 m. The standard EFL and the X5 carry bigger batteries. The S and P versions are faster and climb steeper ramps, and the 303P and 353P carry 460Ah batteries for long shifts. The Pro models are EP's premium trucks, with the quickest lifting and a seat noise level under 70 dB(A).
Which one lifts highest?
The compact EFLA251S, to 7.2 m with 2.5 tonnes rated capacity. Most full-size models lift to 6 m and the X2 to 4.8 m. Capacity drops near full height, so we check it at your beam height on EP's load chart. For racking above 7.2 m, look at a reach truck.
What battery size do I need?
It depends on how many hours the truck works and how hard. A single shift with breaks to top up suits the smaller batteries. Double shifts, heavy loads and lots of ramps suit the bigger batteries on the P versions. We'll work it out from your hours.
Can I hire a 4-wheel forklift?
Yes. Every model is available on contract hire, at a weekly price on a 12-month contract, with servicing, repairs and GA1 or LOLER inspections included. We don't do short-term hire.
Who services the forklift?
Our own mobile engineers service and repair EP forklifts across all 32 counties and carry out the statutory thorough examination (GA1 in the Republic, LOLER in Northern Ireland). Genuine EP parts come direct from the factory.