Explore Plant and Transport Solutions have purchased five Faresin 17m full electric telehandlers following on from their launch at Bauma 2022 in Munich.

The new 17m is part of the ‘Big Range Full Electric’ machine series, which includes the 14.42, 17.40, and 17.45 variants.

The machines are based on Faresin’s diesel models, with a battery replacing the traditional engine. The 14.42 electric telehandler lifts 14m, whereas the larger variants lift 17m.

Warren Wilkinson, Head of Operations at Explore, said “At Explore we are passionate about expanding our green sustainable alternatives, and as such have been looking at Faresin telehandlers for some time.

“With the developments to their battery technology and the launch of the new 17m electric, we see this as a viable construction sector machine, which will meet the requirements of various projects that we are working on.

“We see the use of battery powered plant as key to operating a sustainable construction site and we are delighted to be part of the introduction of this product to the market.”

Mike Heneghan, GGR Group’s Sales Director said “This is massive news and a serious commitment to sustainability and green innovation by Explore.

“The 17m electric telehandler has been highly anticipated as the next obvious step for this range. After trialling the smaller 6.26 model, Explore expressed their interest in a larger model very early on.

“This purchase is a massive statement to the market that Big Range electric telehandlers are here and we know many notable projects are calling for them to be brought onboard.

“We have a long-established working relationship with Explore, working with them on projects such as The Whiteleys redevelopment, Edinburgh St James, Crossrail, HS2 Old Oak Common and Kings Cross Cadence development.

“A collaborative approach is essential to the introduction of these innovative products and our customers, especially early adopters such as Explore, have their part to play in their co-development.

“The 17m electric telehandler is the first of its kind to the market. A lot of attention comes with being first. Not only are people attracted to novelty, especially when it relates to innovative construction plant, it is also being mandated when bidding for certain types of project and government policy is calling for it.

“The success of this product to date has been to listen to feedback and work with our partners to produce machines that are best suited to various applications. We have already seen massive improvements to the battery, machine operation and standard configuration, all at the request of our customers.

“With our experience of working with Explore and proven working relationship, we look forward to having them onboard as a partner in the introduction of these ground-breaking products.”