Hangcha and Manitou Establish Lithium Battery Joint Venture

Le Mans, France - Hangcha Group Co., Ltd., a material handling equipment manufacturer, and Manitou Group., a construction equipment manufacturer, have signed an agreement to form a joint venture focused on lithium-ion batteries for industrial vehicles. Headquartered in Le Mans, the new company aims to accelerate the transition from lead-acid to advanced lithium solutions in the premium industrial vehicle market.

This partnership marks a significant step forward in the longstanding collaboration between Hangcha and Manitou. By combining Hangcha’s deep expertise in lithium battery technology and manufacturing with Manitou’s global reach and electric product strategy, the joint venture is poised to deliver cutting-edge solutions to customers worldwide.

The lithium-ion batteries produced by the new company will offer substantial benefits, including over 50% higher energy density, rapid 1–2 hour charging, and a lifespan three to five times longer than traditional batteries. Designed to be maintenance-free, these batteries also enable opportunity charging, feature integrated smart management systems to optimize equipment use, reduce operating costs, and contribute to a cleaner environment with zero emissions and no toxic materials.

Mr. Zhao Limin, Chairman and General Manager of Hangcha Group, said, "We will collaboratively enhance solution capability of new energy industrial vehicle power system. This partnership perfectly aligns with our shared objectives to accelerate electrification transformation and drive sustainable development, while providing robust support to the broader industrial vehicle market."

Mr. Michel Denis, President & CEO of Manitou Group, said, "This creation, undertaken with one of our long-standing partners, will allow us to accelerate the deployment of our electric industrial vehicles ranges, in line with the ambitions announced during the presentation of our new 'LIFT' roadmap."

The joint venture reflects Hangcha and Manitou’s shared vision to advance cleaner, smarter, and more efficient material handling. By combining their strengths and focusing on innovation, they aim to help customers worldwide adopt high-performance lithium technology and build a sustainable, future-ready industry.

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