• Gel Tensor energizing JS Davidson’s forklift fleet
• Enhanced cold storage performance, reduced costs, and improved sustainability
• Unique combination of original Gel and Tensor technologies delivers superior reliability also in low-temperature environment.

Exide Technologies has revealed the successful implementation of its Gel Tensor battery technology at JS Davidson, a UK-based specialist in temperature-controlled storage, packing and global distribution.

In 2021, JS Davidson faced growing operational challenges with its traditional lead-acid forklift batteries, particularly with the performance in cold storage environments.  Frequent maintenance, limited runtime, and performance drops in low temperatures were impacting efficiency. Seeking a solution that could overcome these frustrations, John Davidson, the owner of JS Davidson, partnered with Exide Technologies.

Following a detailed energy consultation, Exide Technologies introduced its Gel Tensor battery, a robust, maintenance-free solution, specifically designed for high-demand and cold-storage environments. Featuring a unique combination of the company’s renowned Tensor technology with its original Gel technology, the Gel Tensor batteries deliver consistently high performance, even in demanding conditions.

Key benefits realized:

• Maintenance-free – no water refilling or cleaning required
• Cold-ready performance – optimized for low-temperature environments
• Energy savings of 20 % – thanks to reduced electricity consumption
• Extended operational times – with fewer charging interruptions
• Opportunity charging – flexible recharging during downtimes

Long-term impact – efficiency meets sustainability 
Today, JS Davidson’s forklift fleet is energized exclusively by Gel Tensor batteries, including six 24V 380Ah, six 48V 750Ah and four 48V 870Ah. This transition has significantly improved operational uptime, reduced total cost of ownership, and eliminated the need for battery changes during shifts, all while supporting the company’s sustainability goals.

John Davidson said: “The Gel Tensor product has exceeded our expectations and is lasting a 16-hour shift with an eight-hour charge every day. We are finding the harder we use the product the better it performs.” “There is also the added benefit of no battery changes, increasing the number of pallets moved over the 16-hour period. We are delighted with the product, and every new product ordered has the Gel Tensor product as part of their specification.”

This installation marks the first successful deployment of Gel Tensor technology in a cold storage facility, setting a precedent for material handling performance in demanding environments. Four years on, every new forklift ordered by JS Davidson includes Gel Tensor batteries as standard, a testament to the technology’s reliability and the strength of the partnership.