Powering the future of forklifts

With little sign of any of these factors fading over the coming years, the challenge manufacturers now face is how to adapt to them without compromising on quality or performance. After all, the vital role played by forklifts—and the consequences of any failures—means that components must not only be cost-effective but also reliable, adaptable, and well-supported.

This is where Regal Rexnord’s expertise in power transmission solutions plays a crucial role, helping OEMs navigate these pressures with engineered solutions designed for efficiency, durability, and long-term value. Additionally, as the industry moves toward electrification, many of Regal Rexnord’s products are designed to support OEMs in transitioning their machines to electric power, improving efficiency and sustainability.

Countering cost pressures with smart engineering

Cost remains a defining factor in the forklift sector, particularly as competition from new markets grows. Asian manufacturers now hold around 30% of the European market, shifting the balance in the industry, particularly for smaller trucks. To remain competitive, manufacturers must find ways to reduce costs without sacrificing performance.

One key approach is the development of more compact, high-efficiency components. Regal Rexnord has invested in engineering solutions that allow for downsized systems, helping forklift OEMs reduce materials, weight, and production costs while maintaining—or even improving—performance. This is particularly critical as manufacturers look to create more energy-efficient and streamlined forklift designs. Many of these innovations also align with the ongoing shift toward electric forklifts, where lightweight, efficient components are essential for maximizing battery life and operational performance.

At the same time, localized manufacturing is helping to counteract the rising impact of tariffs. By producing in multiple locations across three continents, Regal Rexnord ensures that customers can source high-quality, tariff-optimized components without disruption.

Key technologies driving forklift evolution

As forklift designs evolve, manufacturers are looking for more than just individual components—they need integrated solutions that enhance performance across the entire vehicle system.

For example, one of the key areas of focus is the integration of electronics into mechanical components. By incorporating features such as built-in speed sensors within brakes, forklift manufacturers can simplify system architecture, reduce the part count, and lower overall assembly costs. This level of engineering integration is helping streamline forklift production while enhancing vehicle performance and reliability. These advancements are especially important as the industry embraces electrification, where precise control and efficiency are key to optimizing electric drivetrains.

Customization is another growing trend in forklift design. OEMs are increasingly looking for tailored braking solutions, rather than generic, one-size-fits-all products. Regal Rexnord has responded by offering flexible configurations for its braking systems, ensuring that forklift manufacturers can fine-tune performance to meet their exact specifications.

Lifting expectations

Beyond braking, lift chain technology is also seeing significant advances. While chains may seem like a simple component, their performance has a direct impact on forklift reliability and service life. Regal Rexnord’s latest precision-engineered lift chains allow manufacturers to reduce component size while extending maintenance intervals, ensuring long-term operational efficiency.

At the same time, the forklift sector is shifting toward a more holistic approach to powertrain design. Rather than treating components as standalone elements, manufacturers are looking for bundled solutions that work seamlessly together.

Regal Rexnord’s strength lies in its ability to provide a comprehensive offering, integrating components such as brakes, chains, and bearings into a cohesive power transmission system. This approach simplifies procurement, reduces supply chain complexity, and ensures compatibility across the entire forklift drivetrain.

Moreover, the company’s global manufacturing footprint ensures consistent product quality across all regions, making it easier for OEMs to source standardized components regardless of production location.

Looking to the future

As forklifts become more advanced, efficient, and cost-sensitive, the need for high-performance, engineered components is greater than ever. By combining innovative materials, system integration, and localized production, Regal Rexnord is helping manufacturers navigate a changing market while staying competitive.

Regal Rexnord’s 30,000 associates around the world help create a better tomorrow by providing sustainable solutions that power, transmit and control motion. The Company’s electric motors and air moving subsystems provide the power to create motion. A portfolio of highly engineered power transmission components and subsystems efficiently transmits motion to power industrial applications. The Company’s automation offering, comprised of controllers, drives, precision motors, and actuators, controls motion in applications ranging from factory automation to precision tools used in surgical applications.
 
The Company’s end markets benefit from meaningful secular demand tailwinds, and include discrete automation, food & beverage, aerospace, medical, data center, energy, residential and commercial buildings, general industrial, and metals and mining.
 
Regal Rexnord is comprised of three operating segments: Industrial Powertrain Solutions, Power Efficiency Solutions, and Automation & Motion Control. Regal Rexnord is headquartered in Milwaukee, Wisconsin and has manufacturing, sales and service facilities worldwide. For more information, including a copy of our Sustainability Report, visit RegalRexnord.com.