Jungheinrich unveils new high-energy efficiency ‘indoor, outdoor’ reach truck

Jungheinrich has announced the launch of its new C series reach trucks. The ETV C16 and ETV C20 models can transport loads of up to two tonnes and are equally suited to indoor and outdoor operations.

Super-elastic tyres and high ground clearance give these trucks the edge when it comes to transporting goods reliably and safely – whether on a smooth concrete floor in the warehouse or on a bumpy asphalt surfaces around the loading area.

“The ETV C series reach trucks are ideally suited for transporting goods on varying floor and ground surfaces, for example for combined warehouse and yard work,” explains Jonathan Morris, Sales Director Corporate Accounts at Jungheinrich UK. “Due to their compact design and reach mast technology, they’re also adept at working in the tightest of spaces. The combination of these features means the customer only needs one type of truck for a variety of applications.”

High-energy efficiency and improved throughput

“In terms of productivity our new generation reach trucks represent the state-of-the-art,” says Morris. “Compared with the previous edition, these forklifts deliver even greater throughput with lower energy consumption.” Jungheinrich achieves this high-energy efficiency through the optimised set-up of Jungheinrich’s drive motors, electronic controllers and software – all designed and manufactured in-house.

The triple masts of the ETV C series reach lift heights of up to 7.4 metres. The high quality and robust mast uprights offer improved torsion resistance and higher residual lifting capacities, even at maximum lift heights. They also provide the driver with an excellent view of the forks.

Taking the strain off the driver and increasing operational safety, the ergonomically arranged controls make driving and manipulating loads simple, intuitive and precise. The Jungheinrich Curve Control feature also makes cornering safe by automatically reducing the speed in accordance with the steering angle when entering a bend.

With their compact design, these trucks are suitable for working in aisle widths as narrow as 2829 mm, making them perfect for economic storage and retrieval cycles at high racking levels and in very confined spaces.

Ergonomic seat reduces fatigue

Driver access to the cab is made easy and safe with a generously sized, non-slip step. Inside the ergonomically designed cab, the outstanding headroom and legroom even gives tall drivers plenty of space. Adding to driver comfort, the operator can fully adjust the seat to his size by modifying the seat position and backrest height, as well as setting for body weight. At the controls the operator can access plenty of storage options for stowing personal items. All major controls are within easy reach and the pedals are of standard automotive configuration.

With the optional steering changeover feature, the driver can push a button to switch the steering from 180° to 360°. For the new ETV C an operator-protecting panorama roof is also available as an option – a highly successful feature of other Jungheinrich reach trucks. The roof offers clear visibility and full protection for the driver in any situation, regardless of how small or large the payload.

The Multi-Pilot and Solo-Pilot controls provide for safe and intuitive operation of the truck, allowing the driver to activate all hydraulic functions as well as the travel direction and horn. All controls are within view and are clearly identified. The sensitive response of the controls allows the driver to execute his tasks with millimetre precision. Additional attachments – for example an optional fork positioner – are also operated using sensitive controls.

The high-quality, easy-to-read display informs the driver of all key operating data, including direction of travel and wheel position. It also provides information on battery status and remaining time to recharging. Three separately adjustable drive programs make it easy to adapt the ETV C to each particular task. “The handy, operator-friendly design of our reach trucks means less stress and strain for the driver in his daily work and better health as a result,” says Morris.

Optional assistance systems increase productivity and safety

With a wide range of assistance systems Jungheinrich provides additional tools that make the driver’s work easier and improve efficiency. The Position Control assistance system, for instance, ensures quick and easy stacking at pre-set storage heights. Moreover, to make things even easier the new SNAP function means the operator can activate the semi-automatic, pre-set lift height option. According to Jonathan Morris, “A slight forwards and backwards rocking movement on the lift speed control lever instructs the truck to automatically detect the next racking level, making manual selection of height unnecessary.” The system uses a built-in balance to automatically distinguish between storage and retrieval operations.

By continually sensing the weight of the load and synchronising with the lift height of the truck, the Operation Control assistance system ensures the residual capacity is not exceeded. If it is, both visual and acoustic warning signals alert the driver.

As every application is different, the reach truck can be fitted with numerous options to match each particular case. These options include weather-protected driver’s cabins, available in three different variations and guaranteeing protection for frequent outdoor use.

Morris sums up the advantages of the new C series reach trucks: “Whether it involves operating within pallet racking, or whether the trucks are used in single or multi-shift operations, or whether they are to be used frequently outdoors – our reach trucks offer the client a wide variety of solutions.”