Electric Tug FAQ

What is an Electric Tug?

An Electric Tug is a battery-powered machine that is designed to improve safety and productivity by reducing manual handling when pushing and pulling heavy loads on wheels/castors.

What are the benefits of an Electric Tug?

- Improved safety and reduced risk of workplace accidents and injuries by reducing manual handling

- Increased productivity - all Nu-Star Electric Tugs can be operated by a single user

- Pedestrian-operated - no driving license is required

- Not subject to Lifting Operations and Lifting Equipment Regulations (LOLER) as Electric Tugs are not lifting devices - meaning less down-time waiting for trained staff to operate machinery

- Eco-Friendly - battery-powered with zero-emissions and minimal noise making them versatile and suitable for indoor and outdoor use

- Improved Employee wellbeing – Our machines have no Hand-arm vibration (HAVS) and using our machines to reduce manual handling and heavy lifting helps prevent long-term health problems such as Musculoskeletal disorders (MSD).

Why should I buy a Nu-Star Electric Tug?

Nu-Star is an Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) that designs and manufactures CE approved Electric tugs in the UK. The Power Pusher signature Electric Tug has been trusted for over 60 years. The Power Pusher is powerful, robust and built to last.

Nu-Star are committed to selling a solution that is fit-for-purpose. We recommend a free demonstration so we can visit on-site to make sure we provide you with the best possible solution for your material handling and load moving requirements. This can involve designing bespoke attachments for your business where needed.

What types of Electric Tugs are available?

Nu-Star’s product portfolio has developed over the years through experience, constant innovation and customers approaching us with their unique load moving problems. We love a challenge and enjoy providing innovative solutions to meet our customer needs.

Our core product range includes the: Power Pusher, Super Power Pusher, Dual Motor Super Power Pusher, PowerTug, MUV Electric Wheelbarrow, MUV Trailer Mover, HD Trailer Mover and MUV 4WD. Check out our product range here.

We also design and build custom electric tugs and bespoke attachments, so don’t worry if the solution you need isn’t jumping out at you in our core products, get in touch with us to discuss your needs and work with our Engineering team to come up with a tailored solution.

Do I need a driving license to operate an Electric Tug?

No. You do not require a driving licence to operate an Electric Tug as all of Nu-Star Electric Tugs are pedestrian-operated and as they do not lift, they are not subject to Lifting Operations and Lifting Equipment Regulations (LOLER).  Meaning that nearly all of the workforce could be trained to operate Nu-Star Material Handling equipment if this suits your workplace operations.

Do I need training to operate an Electric Tug?

We recommend training to ensure safe practices are followed when operating Electric Tugs in busy workplace environments. Training also provides opportunities to share top-tips to keep your Electric Tug serviced and working to its best performance every day.

Where can I hire a Power Pusher or Electric Wheelbarrow?

You can hire a Power Pusher, Electric Wheelbarrow or in fact, any Electric Tug from the Nu-Star range direct from Nu-Star. We offer short-term hire and long-term rental options. Get in touch at [email protected]

How often should I charge my Electric Tug batteries?

For optimum performance we recommend you charge your batteries after every shift. A full battery charge cycle takes eight hours to complete.

How long does a battery charge last?

This is dependent upon application usage and frequency, however using the correct charging procedures and good maintenance a battery charge should last an entire day.

How often should I service my Electric Tug?

We recommend an Annual service to keep your Electric Tug in tip-top condition and running to its optimum performance. However, based on the application and environment in some instances Bi-Annual services may be more beneficial.

Do you offer a call-out repair service and on-site services?

Yes. We offer emergency on-site repairs and maintenance consultation in the UK. Call +44(0)115 880 0070 to book a Service Engineer.

Where do I buy Power Pusher spare parts?

It’s always advised to use genuine parts in order to get the best out of your machine. Only by using genuine parts can we guarantee optimum performance of your Nu-Star Electric Tug.

Complete our quick enquiry form or give us a call on +44 (0)115 880 0070 to buy your spare parts direct from us, the manufacturer.

How many accidents and/or injuries are there every year as a result of manual handling incidents in the workplace?

In the HSE 2020 Health and safety at work summary, 19% of all reported injuries were a result of manual handling, which equates to 12,000 accidents in the workplace, the full report is available here.

How do I activate my Nu-Star warranty?

Once you’ve received your shiny new machine, (wahoo!), you should spot an activation tag on the tug handle. Simply scan the QR code and enter your Company Name, Machine Serial Number (normally found under the handle or depending on the model under the lid of your tug) and Email Address. Easy Peasy. By activating your warranty you’ll also be sent your Electric Tug Manual to the email address provided.

I’ve lost my Power Pusher Manual – how do I get a new one?

Don’t worry, these things happen. Simply get in touch at [email protected] or give us a call quoting your machine Serial Number and we’ll be happy to help.

Can I carry out repairs on my Electric Tug?

For minor machine faults or parts replacements you’re able to purchase spare parts direct from us and we have a selection of handy How-To guides with a step-by-step process to help you complete minor repairs yourself.

For larger more complex repairs it’s advisable get in touch with our Service Department who are always on hand and happy to help. Give us a call or get in touch at [email protected]

How long is the machine warranty?

For new machines we offer a 12 month warranty and a 6 month warranty period for the purchase of used tugs.

Where can I buy an Electric Tug?

Power Pusher and Nu-Star Electric Tugs are manufactured in the UK and are available to purchase direct and shipped worldwide.

We also have a network of dedicated Distributors who you can contact in your local area.

Are you able to help us with a bespoke load moving job?

Yes, we have a dedicated Design Engineer Team who create unique and innovative solutions to meet your needs, from completely bespoke machine builds to creating custom attachments for our existing product range. Our signature Power Pusher has over 100 application-specific attachments available! Here are some custom tug examples created over the years.