Doosan Bobcat shows new branding, hydrogen fuel cell forklift at ProMat

Doosan Bobcat Inc. highlighted the future of its material handling equipment lineup this week at ProMat 2023, an exhibition for professionals working in the supply chain, warehouse and distribution industries, which took place in Chicago, Ill., March 20-23. In addition to showcasing new branding, the company featured its newest hydrogen fuel cell-powered concept machine.

The 6000-lb.-capacity B30X-7 hydrogen fuel cell concept forklift will be developed under the Bobcat product portfolio as part of the transition of Doosan Industrial Vehicle (DIV) products into the Bobcat trade dress. The forklift was initially announced as a research and development project in 2022 by Doosan Bobcat. 

Multiple machines were displayed in the new Bobcat trade dress (shown: D70S-9), alongside a hydrogen fuel cell concept forklift. (Photo: Bobcat)

“As a company, we are evolving in bold ways to meet our customers’ toughest challenges by offering innovative solutions for a more sustainable future,” said Scott Park, Doosan Bobcat CEO and vice chairman. “Alternative energy products — such as hydrogen or electric — give customers options, while also leading the way toward a more sustainable future and greener tomorrow.” 

Longer operating times and faster refueling make hydrogen fuel cell forklifts ideal for applications in such applications as warehouses operating multiple shifts, the company said. It noted that fuel cells can be refueled in three minutes or less and the forklift can return to work immediately following, with no cooling time required. The forklift can also run longer and at a higher, steady voltage.

Plug and SK Plug Hyverse (the Plug JV with SK E&S) have a business relationship with Doosan Bobcat focused on providing hydrogen-based material handling solutions globally. The Bobcat-branded hydrogen fuel cell forklift is initially being developed as a Class 1 forklift model, with opportunity across various forklift model offerings and classes in future.

Also showcased at ProMat was a number of current forklift model families plus multiple machines displayed in Bobcat trade dress. Doosan Bobcat recently announced that DIV, Doosan Portable Power and Doosan Industrial Air brands would transition to become part of the Bobcat product portfolio.

Bobcat-branded material handling equipment will be available to customers in select markets at a later date.