MEP-1000: the first Russian electric forklift

Today's market for mini-loaders in general and electric ones in particular is literally filled with foreign models, among which Chinese cars are leading. Russian manufacturers intend to squeeze out competitors and the first steps are already being taken in this direction.


An enterprise in Kurgan that produces road equipment officially presented its new development last year (the project was carried out jointly with Vympel Design Bureau).


We are talking about the MEP-1000 loader model, equipped with an electric motor developing 50 kW. What is this machine?

Technical specifications

The electric motor installed on the MEP-1000 allows lifting loads weighing up to one ton. Its torque is 120 N*m. Batteries with a voltage of 569,4 V, when fully charged, ensure the operation of the equipment for seven hours.


At the same time, replenishing the battery capacity, if you use a DC-DC type station (connector type - CCS Combo 2), takes an hour (from 20 to 80%). Unfortunately, the official website does not indicate who the manufacturer of batteries and electric motors is. But even if they are Chinese, the first step has still been taken. Other technical data:

✅ height (with bucket) – 4,4 m
✅ operating weight – 3,3 t
✅ speed – up to 12 km/h (there is a software limitation)
✅ operating temperature range – from -40° to +50°

The turn is made due to the difference between the speed of the wheels on the left and right. The bucket is equipped with a hydraulic leveling system. The loader is intended for use in large warehouses, housing and communal services, construction and agriculture. The Bobcat-Touch type mounting plate used makes it possible to work with a large number of attachments. Thanks to the use of electric traction, the machine is three times less noisy than its counterparts equipped with an internal combustion engine.


The chassis uses hydraulic motors and chain drives, which increases the reliability of the equipment. In general, PEM-1000 is characterized by a simple design and is environmentally safe. Testing of new equipment took place in the capital's housing and communal services departments.

About the cabin

It is all-metal, and the inside is lined with noise-absorbing materials. The glazing is made “in a circle” and has protection against accidentally falling objects or tipping over (according to TUV requirements). The reinforced frame complies with all ROPS and FOPS standards. In summer, a ventilation supply and exhaust system with filters can be used. Air conditioning is available as an option. For comfortable operation in winter conditions, an autonomous heater is provided. The operator's workplace is adjustable in both planes.


The loader mechanisms are controlled using convenient joysticks. Drive – electro-hydraulic. Optionally, the machine can be equipped with a more powerful system for working with heavy attachments. The role of optics is played by a pair of halogen lights located in front and at the stern of the MEP-1000. Ease of maintenance provides easy access to required points from the ground.

Price and prospects

The cost of the loader is not indicated on the manufacturer’s website, but it is possible to buy the machine on lease. For example: a Chinese JAC CPD 16 without a cab with a carrying capacity of 1,6 tons costs 2 million 414 thousand 642 rubles. Obviously, the competition will be fierce. In conclusion, it is worth noting: today there are no analogues of MEP-1000 made in the Russian Federation. We can only hope that this is the first sign and that in the future Russian companies will provide the country with domestically produced electric forklifts.