Bobcat’s first 3-wheel forklift with a lithium-ion battery

Nov 23, 2025 Warehousing Ireland Logistics, News, Product Launch, Warehousing Comments Off on Bobcat’s first 3-wheel forklift with a lithium-ion battery

---

The new B16-20-NT series is the first 3-wheel forklift from Bobcat to be based exclusively on the latest lithium-ion technology. The B16NT, B18NT and B20NT models are specially designed for light to medium-duty use. Thanks to their combination of compact design, high manoeuvrability, and an emission-free drive, the series is a future-proof investment for in-plant logistics.

 

Features of electric forklifts: agility and ergonomics

 

The compact 3-wheel forklifts in the NT series offer load capacities of 1.6 to 2.0 tons with a load centre of 500 mm. Equipped with a 4.5 kW dual drive, a 12 kW hydraulic motor and a maintenance-free lithium-ion battery, they boast high performance capabilities. The models are particularly impressive in narrow warehouse aisles thanks to their excellent manoeuvrability and small turning radius.

 

Ergonomically designed driver’s seats with generous legroom, a low entrance and modern controls – including the intuitive colour display with onboard diagnostics and optional fingertip controls – ensure a high level of comfort and safety in daily use. The electric parking brake including ramp stop completes the safety concept.

 

Launch of new lithium-ion batteries

 

Alongside the market launch of the new B16-20-NT series, Bobcat is also introducing its own lithium-ion batteries. These can be ordered as an alternative to the lead-acid energy pack for the existing electric forklift product range. The new batteries are available in 400 and 600 Ah versions – regardless of voltage and series – and can be seamlessly integrated into the forklift’s CAN bus, making a separate display redundant. Lithium iron phosphate (LiFePO4, also known as LFP) is used as the cell chemistry, ensuring high safety and a long lifespan. Thanks to the integrated thermal management system, operation is even possible at temperatures as low as -18°C. The Machine IQ telematics and diagnostics system, which allows important system data to be read out in real time, provides additional transparency and control.

 

Not only is the service life of Bobcat’s lithium-ion batteries two to three times longer than that of conventional lead-acid batteries, they also require significantly less maintenance and offer higher efficiency. The Bobcat Machine IQ app can be used to easily monitor and analyse operating data, charging cycles and the battery status. The warranty of 5 years, or 10,000 operating hours, is another plus.

 

Smart charging infrastructure: fast, safe, flexible

 

Bobcat has developed its own series of powerful charging solutions for use with the new lithium-ion batteries. These are designed for efficiency and speed. Depending on the model, a full charge takes around two hours at a charging capacity of up to 300 A. The chargers are available for both 51.2 V and 80 V systems and cover capacities from 400 to 600 Ah. Thanks to their flexible connectivity (e.g. 16A/32A plugs) and robust design, they are ideal for a wide range of applications, whether in existing charging premises or distributed throughout the application environment. Thanks to the smart charging electronics, the charging process is always safe and adapted to the current status of the battery, thus extending its service life.

 

Conclusion: focus on the future

 

With the new Li-ion forklifts in the BNT series, the new Li-ion batteries, and the corresponding fast chargers for the existing range, Bobcat is clearly demonstrating its commitment to sustainable and efficient intralogistics. The combination of zero-emission technology, high user-friendliness, and modern energy management makes the B16-20NT series and Bobcat’s Li-ion energy packs the ideal solution for forward-looking companies.

 

Technical highlights of the B16-20NT series at a glance:

 

• Load capacity: 1.6–2.0 t at 500 mm
• Dual drive motors (2x 4.5 kW)
• Maintenance-free Li-ion battery (277–412 Ah / 14.18–21.09 kWh)
• Charging time: approx. 2 hours (with 150–200 A fast charger)
• CAN bus integration
• 5-year/10,000-hour warranty on battery
• Standard electric parking brake including ramp stop
• Ergonomic operator cab with optional fingertip system
• Proportionally controlled lift speed

 

Picture Caption – With the new B16-20NT series, Bobcat is launching its first electric 3-wheel forklifts based on modern lithium-ion technology. The B16NT, B18NT and B20NT models are specially designed for light to medium-duty use.

 

---