Wiri-based specialist container cartage firm Reliance Transport is now operating New Zealand’s only all-electric reach stacker, with plans for more to come.

The business operates four reach stackers in total. Until now every reach stacker in the country was diesel powered.

The all-electric reach stacker is part of Reliance Transport’s vision to become a carbon zero operation by 2030.

Director Mark Darrah said reducing the company’s fuel costs and footprint alongside its responsibility to sustainable practice is a focus for the business.

“We’re very aware we operate in a mixed-use urban area of Onehunga so we think that comes with a responsibility to see where we can reduce both our noise and air pollution.”

He said Reliance Transport is in the second stage of Project Switch – its carbon-zero journey – with more major announcements to come.

Portstar Machinery’s Ian Magee – the specialist importer of the Sany All-Electric Reach Stacker – said the machines can make a massive impact on a business in more ways than one.

“An average diesel reach stacker can burn through nearly 20 litres of fuel an hour with many of them operating up to 100 hours per week. So when you multiply that by a lifespan of up to 10 years you can really see the benefit of these electric models to a business’ bottom line and footprint.”