Tomsetts gives diesel forklift a new lease of life with electric remanufacturing
As part of its ongoing commitment to sustainability and its ambitious Net Zero 2040 strategy, Tomsetts Distribution has taken delivery of the UK’s first fully remanufactured electric forklifts.
Rather than purchasing a brand-new vehicle, the company chose a more sustainable alternative that demonstrates how existing equipment can be given a completely new life while significantly reducing its environmental impact.
Originally built as a diesel forklift, the truck spent many years in service before reaching the end of its operational life. Instead of being scrapped, it underwent a complete remanufacturing process, where it was fully dismantled, cleaned and rebuilt. Worn components were replaced, and the vehicle was converted from diesel to electric before being supplied with a full warranty, offering the same confidence and reliability as a new machine.
Environmental benefits
The environmental benefits are considerable. Remanufacturing the forklift is estimated to reduce carbon emissions by around 80% compared with manufacturing a brand-new electric forklift from scratch. It also represents a significant cost saving, at around three-quarters of the cost of purchasing a new electric model.
For the Tomsetts team, the benefits are immediately noticeable. The forklift operates quietly, produces no diesel fumes and provides an efficient, modern solution for daily warehouse operations.
Andrew Tucknott, Managing Director of Tomsetts Distribution, said:
“Sustainability isn’t always about buying something new. Sometimes it’s about looking at what already exists and finding a smarter way forward.
This forklift perfectly reflects the way we’re approaching our Net Zero journey. We’ve taken equipment that had reached the end of one life and given it another, with all the benefits of electric operation while dramatically reducing the environmental impact.
We believe that if we can make choices like this, businesses of all sizes can too.”
Cleaner vehicles for customers and the environment
The investment forms part of Tomsetts’ wider On the Road to Net Zero programme, which is exploring practical ways to reduce emissions across every aspect of the business. From cleaner vehicles and operational efficiencies to strategic partnerships and sustainable investment, the company continues to look for innovations that benefit both customers and the environment.
While one forklift may seem like a small step, it reflects a much bigger philosophy: that meaningful progress towards Net Zero is achieved through a series of practical, considered decisions that together make a lasting difference.
