Two New Li-ion Forklifts Are Designed To Replace Both IC & Lead-Acid Trucks
The fast-moving transition of forklifts away from IC and lead-acid power continues with the addition of two new lithium-ion-powered forklifts from Big Joe Forklifts.
The benefits of Li-ion forklifts are undeniable:
- Smoother power–no loss of torque during usage
- No need for battery storage or charging areas, freeing up space for revenue producing operations
- Less maintenance–No need for watering or conditioning
- Safer and cleaner operation–no need to swap out a battery weighing up to 3,000 lb. No potential exposure to toxic gasses or acid spills.
- Faster charging–Li-ion batteries can be ‘opportunity-charged’ in under an hour
- Lower operating cost–Li-ion batteries last longer and deliver more consistent power
And the new LXE50 Spartan and LVE Sprint clearly represent the productivity improvements and cost-effectiveness of these benefits.
LXE50 Spartan Cushion Tire Forklift
Expanding the LXE line of Big Joe Forklifts, the new LXE50 offers Li-ion power for a 5,000 lb. capacity forklift designed for indoor warehouse use. Based on the same chassis as similar LP and diesel-powered forklifts, the LXE50 eliminates fuel and maintenance costs associated with IC-powered forklifts. What’s more, it eliminates the labor-intensive, potentially unsafe, and inefficient use of lead-acid forklifts. No dedicated battery charging or battery-swapping stations needed, and no downtime for charging and conditioning. The LXE50’s 460 Ah Li-ion battery offers 6 to 6.5 hours of smooth power operation. The forklift will elevate a 5,000 lb. load to 130 in., while an optional triple mast lifts the same load to 197 in. Cushion tires and a low center of gravity offer exceptional maneuverability in indoor warehouses.
The smaller space taken up by the LXE50’s Li-ion battery allows the forklift to have a more spacious operator compartment. At the same time, thoughtful ergonomic controls provide lift, lower, tilt, and sideshift within easy reach.

Big Joe LXE50 Key Features
- 460 Ah Li-ion battery for longer run time
- On-board charger replenishes 12% of power every 15 minutes
- Lift capacity of 5,000 lb. to 130 in. With triple mast option, reach 197 in.
- Front and rear smooth cushion tires
- Low center of gravity provides superb stability and maneuverability
- Wide view mast provides excellent visibility
- Low-maintenance dual 80-volt AC motors offer smooth, consistent torque
- Power steering with assist knob and adjustable steering column
- Programmable diagnostic display with Bluetooth capability
- Sideshifter included as a standard item
- Three standard hydraulic functions–lift, tilt, and sideshift
- 12-volt accessory charging port
- 42 in. forks
Big Joe LXE50 Optional Features
- Medium-duty 230 Ah Li-ion battery
- 4th hydraulic valve to power attachments
- 120, 240, or 480-volt charger
- Telematics package
- 48 in. forks
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LVE35 Sprint Three-wheel Forklift
The new LVE35 Sprint from Big Joe offers a lower total cost of ownership in a 3,500 lb. capacity, solid pneumatic tire forklift designed for more rugged terrain. Like the LXE50, LVE35 eliminates the fuel costs, maintenance costs, safety issues, and inefficiencies of both IC and Lead-acid battery forklifts. The LVE35 offers consistent power for 4 to 4.5 hours from its 80-volt, 230 Ah Li-ion battery. The forklift can raise a 3,500 load to 130 in. and optionally to 197 in. with a triple stage wide view mast.
Big Joe LVE35 Key Features
- Standard 230 Ah Li-ion battery
- On-board charger replenishes 12% of power every 15 minutes
- Capacity of 3,500 lb. to 130 in. Triple mast option reaches 197 in.
- Front and rear solid pneumatic tires for rugged use
- Low center of gravity provides superb stability and maneuverability
- Wide view mast provides excellent visibility
- Low maintenance dual 80-volt AC motors offer smooth, consistent torque
- Power steering with assist knob and adjustable steering column
- Programmable diagnostic display with Bluetooth capability
- Sideshifter included as a standard item
- Three standard hydraulic functions–lift, tilt and sideshift
- 42 in. forks
Big Joe LVE35 Optional Features
- 4th hydraulic valve to power attachments
- 120, 240, or 480-volt charger
- Telematics package
- 48 in. forks
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You’ll find these two new, exciting additions to the Big Joe line of Li-ion forklifts, stackers, pallet jacks and walkies at Apex, your primary source for material handling equipment in the greater Chicago area. Don’t forget to talk to your Apex rep about our affordable operator training programs and our favorable leasing and financing options.




