Meeting The Renewable Demand With The Factories Of Old

Renewable energy is on the rise and being seen in everything from cars to tourism. While the implementation of renewable energy in technology is of the high variety, there’s also a classic manufacturing story behind the generation of batteries. Indeed, as McKinsey highlights, the huge demand for batteries will see a surge in manufacturing demand globally. This rescue of what is a classic industry must be met with proper investment, and that includes the vehicles that are used to power the logistics chain.

Logistics and flexibility

In order to keep up with demand, there is a significant need for maneuverable industrial vehicles to help factories keep up. Some of the stalwarts of industry are perhaps not fit for service any longer, however. USA Today have highlighted a series of fines concerning forklift truck operators; the classic vehicle has been less suitable for tight space manufacturing work for some time as a result. Increasingly, more flexible and versatile machines, often skid steer style vehicles using mini excavator tracks, are increasingly seeing use. 

Bringing in supply chain

These vehicles will also have a key role to play in the production line itself, and bringing together materials from an already disrupted supply chain. As the White House highlights, the supply chain has been severely impacted by supply chain issues; these have remained and are a serious headache for the manufacturing industry. Minimizing disruption throughout the supply chain will ensure businesses can make the most of restricted resources – and that means using appropriate vehicles that can in tight turnaround conditions.

A full circle?

There are now increasing numbers of electric powered manufacturing vehicles – which closes the loop in terms of the supply chain from battery manufacturers to renewable device manufacturers. This is good news; it creates a positive feedback loop when it comes to demand, and it also puts power back in the hands of the primary manufacturer. Repair and upgrades can take place on site, further refusing the amount of downtime between orders and ensuring that the facility can work as a just in time orientation.

The older manufacturers are powering the cars and devices of the future. Renewable vehicles can’t be made without high-tech batteries, but they can’t be manufactured without an old hand. To embrace this demand, an agile approach to managing the shop floor is necessary, and that is accomplished through vehicles.