Linde Material Handling (MH) has secured top recognition in the “Industrial Trucks” category at the materialfluss Product of the Year 2026 awards, with its Linde Xi Roadster emerging as a standout innovation. The award, determined through an industry-wide readers’ poll, highlights advancements that are shaping the future of intralogistics.
Organized by Pelemedia GmbH, the competition featured 32 shortlisted products across five categories. Voting took place between December 2025 and January 2026, drawing participation from professionals across multiple sectors. Within the industrial trucks segment, the Linde Xi Roadster competed against six other entries, ultimately earning the highest number of votes.
The Xi Roadster represents a significant shift in forklift design. By removing traditional A-pillars, the vehicle offers a markedly improved field of vision, allowing operators to work with greater confidence and precision. This unobstructed visibility is complemented by additional design enhancements, including a lowered front structure for clearer fork positioning and slimmer rear pillars that improve awareness when reversing.
Available in both three- and four-wheel configurations, the Xi14 to Xi20 R models are designed for load capacities of up to two tonnes. Safety remains central to the design, with features such as a reinforced panoramic glass roof that protects operators while maintaining visibility. The forklift also introduces an optional steer control system, replacing the conventional steering wheel with either a mini-wheel or joystick, contributing to improved ergonomics and reduced operator fatigue.
Accepting the award on behalf of the company, Richard Bozem, Senior Strategy and Portfolio Manager at Linde MH, acknowledged the collaborative effort behind the product’s development, emphasizing the team’s focus on combining safety, efficiency, and user-centric design.
Since its market introduction, the Xi Roadster has received strong feedback from customers, particularly for its ability to enhance productivity in demanding warehouse environments. The recognition further reinforces Linde Material Handling’s position as a leader in intralogistics innovation, committed to developing solutions that respond to evolving operational challenges.
