Linde launches electric trucks up to 18 tonnes

Linde Material Handling (Linde MH) now offers a new range of electrically powered heavy-duty forklift trucks with load capacities from 10 to 18 tonnes. Twelve models in total impress with excellent all-round visibility and provide maximum flexibility with a choice of either lead-acid or lithium-ion battery systems.

Offering load capacities of 10, 12, 14, 15, 16 or 18 tonnes and various load centres, the Linde E100 to E180 trucks are a particularly interesting option for companies operating in the wood, steel and stone industries and the beverage sector. One of the first customers also includes a major furniture company.

“Zero emissions, quiet operation, high serviceability, flexibility in use, and precise and agile driving characteristics – these advantages clearly speak in favour of using the electric drive in the heavy-duty class as well,” says Christopher Reis, Product Manager Heavy Trucks.

“With the electric heavy-duty forklift, our customers get a vehicle that is just as worthwhile for light duty as it is for 24/7 continuous use.” Operators have a choice between lead-acid and lithium-ion battery systems. “However, the special feature is that they can even swap the battery technology at any time without having to change the hardware. This is a truly unique selling point of these vehicles and offers a significant advantage not least in terms of subsequent use,” emphasises Reis.

A special drive concept with four motors – two for the left and two for the right wheel – provides the necessary power for transporting the remarkably heavy loads. This enables the most powerful model, the Linde E180/900 with 18 tons load capacity and a load centre of 900mm, to reach a driving speed of 20km/h within just 10 seconds even when fully loaded.

The electrification of the largest truck series means that Linde MH’s entire portfolio of counterbalanced trucks in the load range from 1.4 to 18 tonnes is now available with the most common types of energy technology. Thus, the intralogistics specialist is able to offer its customers the option of selecting the appropriate drive for the specific application at hand, even in the largest payload class.

The development of the large Linde electric forklifts has been aided by more than 50 years of experience with this drive concept. “The use of proven technology ensures high reliability in operation – which is a particularly important feature for our customers,” emphasises product manager Reis. For instance, the design of the new, compact heavy-duty truck series is based on the eight-tonne range, featuring a double drive, double lifting hydraulics, two batteries and scaled pumps.

The decoupled, rubber-mounted cabin design is borrowed from the smaller forklifts as well, but has been significantly improved once again in terms of all-round visibility: An armoured glass roof and large glass panes in the side doors as well as the front screen and rear windows, in combination with the specially shaped counterweight, provide the driver with the best-possible visibility and thus safety during operation. The driver’s seat is optionally rotatable by 17° and offers an armrest, providing relief when reversing.

The orange seat belt with belt buckle monitoring function helps with implementing the safety belt obligation. To enable the battery system to be adapted to different application requirements, there are various battery and charger versions available.

 

Recognising the value of reconditioned attachments

Investing in a used forklift attachment in a great condition is a cost-effective way of upgrading your material handling equipment at a pre-owned price, according to B&B Attachments.

With over 40 years’ experience in the UK and Ireland forklift truck attachment market, B&B Attachments is in a unique position to provide reconditioned clamps to meet its customer’s requirements.

B&B Attachments specialises in the design and manufacture of forklift truck attachments and material handling solutions. The company’s extensive workshop facilities allow its experienced fitters to meet the challenge of providing high quality reconditioned and refurbished clamps. All attachments are inspected, serviced, repaired, and tested. They undergo a rigorous remanufacturing process where original equipment manufactured parts are used wherever possible. Its range of used forklift attachments are available in mounting classes II, III and IV.

“All B&B’s reconditioned attachments are thoroughly restored back to their original condition with some of the most experienced industry professionals finding it hard to tell them apart from new stock,” comments Sales Director, Neal Fowler. “All units are backed by our 3- or 6-month warranty options, with dedicated sales and service teams providing full technical backup and support. All reconditioned attachments are sold with Thorough Examination Certification included.

“Or why not test out our attachments before buying, with our dedicated hire fleet of over 2,500 attachments, available through our European network. All attachments are available on flexible long- or short-term hire agreements to suit the hirer’s need. Whether the requirement is a week, a month, or a year, B&B have the solution that works best for you.”

 

Hyster launches flagship A Series forklifts

Hyster has launched its new Hyster A Series lift truck series, with the H2.0-3.5A internal combustion models now available. The A Series trucks are designed specifically for each customer using A+ Logic, a fully integrated set of scalable and adjustable features that allow users to fine-tune the truck to match their specific application needs.

“For the A Series, Hyster has revolutionised its manufacturing process to deliver the tough, high quality lift trucks that you expect, built around the particular needs of the intended application and the operator,” says Robert O’Donoghue, VP Marketing and Solutions EMEA, for Hyster. “That’s why we describe this series as ‘Distinctly Hyster, built for you’.”

With A+ Logic at the core, the A Series lift trucks can be easily configured to fit each customer’s unique needs, delivering superior performance for the specific operation as well as a low total cost of ownership. The scalable design philosophy makes it easy for customers to add the features that are needed for productivity in their operation and avoid paying for unnecessary options that increase cost without adding value.

“We have designed the trucks this way as no two customers face identical challenges,” says Robert. “With the Hyster A Series, instead of providing you with options for a truck we already built, we build the truck you need according to your duty cycle, environment, and tasks.”

The Hyster H2.0-3.5A internal combustion lift trucks with capacities from 2 to 3.5 tonnes are the first trucks to be released in the series. Not only are they highly configurable, but the base models offer industry-leading fuel economy, excellent visibility, simplified service, and robust components that help prevent unplanned downtime.

“Operator confidence and comfort are tremendously important as they help to enhance productivity,” explains Robert. “That’s why the new A Series lift trucks feature operator-centric design to support proper ergonomics and high performance.”

The spacious operator cabin on the H2.0-3.5A trucks is specifically engineered to emphasise overhead, forward, and rear visibility and give the operator greater freedom of movement to help reduce strain on the body. This attention to design makes the lift truck comfortable and convenient to operate, helping to increase productivity across the whole shift. Additionally, there are available features including operator assistance systems and an innovative Dynamic Stability System (DSS) option.

All A Series trucks are also ‘telematics ready’ for use with the Hyster Tracker wireless asset management solution, which gives businesses the data needed to optimise their fleets, control costs, reduce downtime, and streamline maintenance even further.

The newly released models replace the Hyster Fortens and XT lift trucks at the same capacity. The A Series is expected to expand to include other Hyster IC lift trucks in various capacities in due course.

 

Clark launches forklifts with higher load capacities

Clark‘s globally coveted S-Series celebrated its debut in 2018. With the special “Smart, Strong and Safe” features of the counterbalance trucks, Clark set a benchmark for future truck generations back then. Now the materials handling vehicles manufacturer is expanding the popular series to include IC engine-powered trucks with load capacities of 4 to 5.5t.

Like their smaller counterparts with load capacities of 2 to 3.5t, the new models are also equipped with active safety systems, a smart information system and extensive additional equipment. Operators can tailor the trucks to their individual use and thus achieve high productivity at a low total cost of ownership (TCO), says the manufacturer. And the operator does not miss out either thanks to the excellent ergonomics and safety of the trucks.

The new S-Series models consist of the S40-S55 diesel and LPG forklifts with superelastic or pneumatic tyres. The trucks are the first choice for both medium-duty and extremely tough applications. Wherever high handling performance and availability are crucial – such as in multi-shift operations in industry, trade and distribution, in the paper and beverage industry or in demanding foundry operations – the trucks score with their robust design, reliable, safe and powerful operation and low operating and maintenance costs.

Strong – robust and low-maintenance

The construction basis of the S-Series is, as usual with Clark, the proven “Built to last” concept, which is based on more than 100 years of experience in forklift construction. It stands for a solid construction with high-quality and durable components. The forklifts have, among other things, wet maintenance-free multi-disc brakes, a durable and electronically protected gearbox, tried and tested lift masts from our own production with a robust 6-roller fork carriage, an extremely stable steering axle as well as the fully welded frames familiar from Clark.

Powerful Kubota industrial engines are used in both the diesel and LPG forklifts of the S-Series. The Kubota 4-cylinder diesel engine with common rail fuel injection V3800-CR-TE5B has a fully electronic engine control. This not only makes it environmentally friendly, but also provides an optimised torque curve and more economical operation. Due to the integrated exhaust gas aftertreatment with diesel oxidation catalyst (DOC) and diesel particulate filter (DPF), the Kubota diesel engine, like the LPG engine, meets the strict exhaust gas standards of EU Stage 5.

Operators can look forward to low operating and maintenance costs with the S-Series. The vehicles have, for example, maintenance-free multi-disc brakes with oil cooling, which also show their strong braking effect on wet or dusty ground. At the same time, the brake booster ensures that less force is required for braking. The long maintenance intervals should also be emphasised. In case of maintenance, all relevant components are easy to reach for the service technician. Downtimes are therefore kept to a minimum.

Active safety systems

Clark offers the S-Series with numerous safety features: These include the standard automatic engaging parking brake, which is automatically activated when leaving the parked vehicle and makes the operator’s daily work much easier. The truck control system prevents the forklift from starting against the parking brake. This not only increases safety, but also contributes to longer component durability.

The parking brake also increases safety on ramps. The operator always has the truck under control, as unintentional rolling away or back is prevented. This anti-roll-back feature is standard and can be activated or deactivated via the truck’s control system. Safety and comfort are also ensured by the direction switch integrated in the hydraulic or mini-lever. This allows the driver to change the direction of travel without having to reach around.

The load weight indicator is available as an option. This measures the weight of the load on the forks and helps the driver to avoid overloading the truck. With the Vertical Mast System (VMS), which is also optional, a tilt sensor automatically brings the mast into a vertical position so that goods can be stored and retrieved quickly and safely. The VMS positions the mast vertically both when tilting forwards and backwards and compensates for the vehicle position on uneven floors or ramps.

In order to adapt the maximum travel speed of the truck to the application profile, a speed limiter is optionally available. And last but not least, Clark offers a car-like reversing camera for safe reversing, with the aid of which the driver has an optimum view of the activities in his path when reversing.

Ergonomic driver’s workplace

The ergonomic workplace concept of the S-Series offers the driver a high level of comfort. This starts with the entry: the driver can comfortably get on and off the truck via the wide non-slip step and the large grab handle. In the spacious interior, the driver enjoys the best head and legroom. Clark has placed the tilt cylinders under the base plate on the new series, thus ensuring unobstructed entry and exit.

The comfortable full-suspension seat with safety belt has a folding backrest and can be adjusted to the weight of the driver. To increase safety during forklift operation, the transmission and direction switch can only be operated when the seat belt is fastened by means of appropriate additional equipment. The ergonomic steering wheel, automotive-style pedals and hydrostatic power steering allow the operator to control the truck intuitively and without effort.

The vehicle is operated either by hydraulic levers attached to the bonnet or, optionally, by mini-levers integrated into the fully adjustable, swinging armrest. The movements required to operate the levers are minimal, relieving the strain on the driver’s arm-shoulder area.

The splash-proof 5-inch TFT colour display provides information on all important vehicle parameters, such as travel speed, load weight and operating time until the next maintenance. Safety and warning messages can be individually programmed and are displayed in 26 languages. In addition, the display is used for onboard diagnostics and has password-protected access in case of service. If desired, to save fuel and increase safety, the vehicle can be programmed so that the engine automatically shuts off at idle as soon as the driver leaves the truck seat. When a reversing camera is used, the image is transmitted to the colour display.

The overhead guard provides a good view upwards when storing and retrieving high racking levels. All mast variants with free lift have double primary cylinders so that the driver also has an unobstructed view of the forks and load to the front. By decoupling the engine, transmission and drive axle, Clark has reduced vibration and noise to a minimum so that the driver can concentrate on his work. A wide range of storage options, a 12 V power connection and, on request, a radio or an additional USB charging port, e.g. for mobile phone devices, round off the workplace.

Extensive additional equipment

Clark offers the S-Series with extensive additional equipment for a variety of different applications: These include container-compatible driver’s protective roofs, a reversing camera, a Safety Light for visual warning when driving forwards and backwards, an acoustic reversing alarm, various seats with armrests or side bars, SE tyres, orange safety belt and a wide range of attachments.

In addition, various cab variants are available: these range from rain (cab roof) or weather protection (roof and windscreen) to a partial cab (roof, windscreen and rear window) to a fully equipped full cab with two-part side door and sliding window, air conditioning, heating with proportionally controllable heating valve, heated rear window and front and rear windscreen wipers, so that the driver can work in concentration and comfort even in the harshest climatic conditions.

 

Toyota expands reach truck range

Toyota Material Handling has announced two further additions to the BT Reflex reach truck range. Following the recent updates to the R, E and O-series of BT Reflex machines, the narrow chassis N-series – an ideal truck for confined spaces – has been further improved, while cold-store versions of the R, E and N-series are also now offered.

The BT Reflex N-series is a compact truck designed for use at sites where space is restricted, loads are block stacked or drive-in racking is a feature.

The upgraded N-series comes in two capacities – 1.4 and 1.6 tonnes – while the lift height has been increased to 10 metres. Meanwhile, the new cold store BT Reflex models can lift to a height of 13 metres and are available in five capacities – 1.4, 1.6, 1.8, 2.0 and 2.5 tonnes.

Designed to deliver optimum performance in temperatures as low as -30°C, the standard cold store version has an open cab, however, an isolated heated cabin option is also available.

Both the new narrow N-series and the cold store trucks benefit from a simple-to-use colour touchscreen display and are ergonomically designed with all controls within easy reach for maximum operator comfort.

Featuring lithium-ion battery technology, the new N-Series and cold store trucks are equipped with Toyota’s I_Site fleet management system.

Gary Ison, Sales Training and Product Development Manager, Toyota Material Handling UK, commented: “The latest additions to our class-leading reach truck range bring further benefits to more customer applications. The new BT Reflex machines guarantee a very intuitive and interactive driving experience and deliver highly intelligent energy-saving solutions.”

 

 

Hyster launching new forklift at LogiMAT

Hyster will show a new A Series lift truck for the first time at LogiMAT 2022 in Stuttgart, Germany. Visitors to the show from 31 May to 2 June 2022 will get a chance to see a model that lifts 3.5 tonnes from the new line of tough, scalable, counterbalanced lift trucks at the Hyster stand.

In Hall 10 at Stand C10, experts will be on hand to discuss how Hyster can “Power YOUR Possibilities” with a range of more than 140 counterbalance lift trucks, warehouse equipment and container handlers.

On the stand, the much anticipated Hyster H3.5A will be revealed alongside the “lithium-ion ready” P3.0S Platform Pallet Truck designed for businesses cross docking, loading and unloading trailers or order picking in the warehouse. The P3.0S on show features a fixed platform with side protection for the operator, but there are options available including rear protection or a folding platform with side arms.

In addition, attendees can learn about the different power options for Hyster forklifts and warehouse equipment. For instance, Li.ON FORCE, a lithium-ion battery from Sunlight Group, has recently been added as an option for selected 24V, 48V, and 80V Hyster equipment giving customers more ways to select the best battery technology for their application. The batteries can be linked to Hyster lift trucks using the CANbus communication to optimise battery management. Real-time battery monitoring data and remote access is also available with the Sunlight Group’s GLocal telematics solution.

“We are excited to bring together some of our newest developments and diverse global industry experience at LogiMAT, showing how we support our customers’ specific needs with different solutions,” says Rainer Marian, Director Network Development at Hyster Europe.

Yale to showcase ‘Technology that moves’ at LogiMAT

Yale Europe Materials Handling will return to LogiMAT with a showcase of solutions and materials handling products embodying the ethos ‘Technology that moves’. Visitors to Stand D31 in Hall 9 of Stuttgart Messe can expect to see the latest edition to the Yale product range, the Series N.

Yale experts will be on hand to discuss how Yale products enhance the latest logistics innovations by combining technology and design to provide tailored solutions for tomorrow’s challenges.

“Yale has undergone an exciting business transformation, which we will demonstrate to visitors to LogiMAT 2022,” said Timo Antony, Area Business Director Central Europe at Yale. “We’re looking forward to meeting in-person with our customers, dealers and prospects to show how Yale solutions can keep their businesses moving and thriving.”

Forward thinking logistics

As part of a deepening partnership with one of the world’s top manufacturers of energy storage solutions, Yale will showcase a MR16 reach truck powered by a lithium-ion battery from Sunlight Group. Having previously used the company’s lead-acid batteries in its product range, Yale now offers Sunlight Group lithium-ion batteries as a power solution for its customers.

The MR16 Reach Truck can lift up to 10.5m and has a maximum load capacity of 1600kg. The robust heavy-duty mast design provides high residual capacities and stable load handling, which can enable faster put away and retrieval times.

Yale is proud to be revealing its new Series N ICE counterbalance truck for the very first time at a live trade show at LogiMAT. As well as being easily configured to match unique requirements, raising the bar for success in almost all applications and environments, the Series N offers shift-long operator comfort, excellent visibility and high fuel efficiency.

“There will be a lot of exciting announcements from Yale in the coming 12 months, and LogiMAT is set to kick-start a bright and prosperous chapter for our company, our dealers, and our customers old and new. LogiMAT 2022 is a great opportunity to see our ground-breaking new range, the Series N, as well as find out more about our power solutions and expanding partnership with Sunlight Group,” concluded Antony.

 

Doosan launches fuel-efficient heavy lifting 9-Series

Doosan, a leading manufacturer of robust high performance forklift trucks, has introduced the latest addition to its powerful 9-Series forklift trucks with the launch of the heavy-lifting D160S-9 range – featuring Doosan’s new world-class DL06V(P) Euro Stage V compliant IC engine.

Available in five models across a capacity range of 10-16 tonnes, these tough diesel-powered trucks offer an unbeatable combination of outstanding fuel efficiency, performance, driver comfort and safety, making them perfect for the most demanding industrial environments.

A new capacity model offered for the first time with the 9-Series is the DV160S-9, a 16 tonne (1,200mm load centre) pneumatic counterbalanced forklift truck capable of effortlessly handling the heaviest of loads over long shifts.

The new highly fuel-efficient Doosan-built DL06V(P) Stage V diesel engine brings huge benefits in terms of ultra-low emissions and dramatically lower operating costs – providing a 5% improvement in fuel efficiency, combined with a 20% reduction in energy lost as heat, compared to previous models. The new engine also starts quickly and efficiently in cold conditions.

Importantly, Doosan’s latest engine design is fully compliant with Euro Stage V regulations and is fitted with a Diesel Particulate Filter (DPF). In normal operation, regeneration of the DPF takes place automatically during driving – maximising uptime and ensuring uninterrupted all-round performance.

A cost-saving standard feature of the new range is the multi torque function, allowing the operator to select the performance most suited to the task. ECO mode minimises fuel consumption, cutting down on unnecessary acceleration; High mode increases power output to match the demands of heavy-duty work; and Standard mode maintains output at levels suited to everyday tasks.

Responsive performance

Powerful, robust performance is assured. Doosan’s D160S-9 range has a new highly durable heavy duty drive axle and is equipped with an electronically controlled three-speed ZF transmission, providing the driver with a smooth gear change every time and precision control when handling heavy loads.

A new steer axle incorporating taper roller bearings has also been introduced, offering greater durability. And, importantly, the truck’s new load sensing hydraulic system automatically adjusts in accordance to the load being carried, reducing fuel consumption and heat generated on long runs.

A new sleek cab design offers increased visibility, greater comfort and enhanced ergonomics – giving the driver the perfect conditions for safe, efficient operation.

The cab has been cleverly designed to reduce blind spots and provide greater all-round visibility. And with an all-new ‘full floating’ cabin design, with improved sound insulation, noise has been reduced to just 71db(A) and vibration to an absolute minimum.

In-cab air quality has been enhanced too. By introducing positive air pressure within the cabin and installing two internal filters the driver is protected against the harmful effects of dusty working environments, making the D160S-9 ideal for brick works and foundries. In addition, the heating, ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC) system offers fully automatic temperature control and can be easily adjusted in manual mode.

Information at a glance

When it comes to ergonomics the new cab layout of the D160S-9 firmly places the operator in the command driving position. An integrated 7” full LCD multi-functional display positioned close-to-eye level, along with clearly arranged switches incorporating status indicators and finger-tip controls (optional) for effortless actions, all help to boost productivity and enhance on-site safety

Along with offering easy to view data on the truck’s status, the multi-functional display panel includes an integrated maintenance management programme, diagnostic functions and PIN code security. When used in conjunction with optional front and rear cameras the panel can be used to display forward and reverse views, helping to improve safety on site. A weight indicator is another optional extra.

Included as standard is Doosan’s industry leading sealed, oil-cooled disc brake system, which is virtually maintenance free and lasts up to five times longer when compared to conventional shoe brakes. The sealed units protect against outside elements such as dirt, water and grit, ensuring top-rate braking performance for enhanced safety and increased productivity.

Safety is foremost across Doosan’s entire new 9-Series, as reflected in many of the design features already outlined. In addition, some further prominent safety features are: An operator sensing system; LED lights; hill start assist; rear object detection system (option); auto tilt levelling (option): and blue safety light projection.

Doosan takes ease of maintenance into account too, with improved accessibility to the engine and service areas – the cab tilts back automatically, opening up to 60°. The pump, brake and steering pressure-check ports are centralised for easy inspection and maintenance, and electronic components are centralised for convenience too.

Doosan says its new D160S-9 range offers all the power and performance needed to get the job done.

 

 

Toyota launches its new compact electric forklift

Toyota Material Handling UK has introduced the Traigo24, its new three-wheel electric forklift truck. Designed for simple, straightforward operations in confined or tight spaces, the models range from 1 to 1.5 tonnes and are available with energy-efficient lithium-ion power and great ergonomics for increased productivity.

The new Toyota Traigo24 electric counterbalance range offers a choice of models with capacities of 1, 1.25 and 1.5 tonnes with lift heights up to 6.5m. This easy-to-drive compact three-wheel truck allows for safe and efficient operations in tight spaces or congested areas. A wide range of light to mid-duty applications can be handled by this driver-friendly truck and its size and flexibility make it ideal for factories, warehouses, and shops, without compromising on safety, reliability, or comfort.

Sam Gray, Toyota Materials Handling UK’s Sales Training & Product Development Manager, comments: “There is currently a strong demand for electric CB forklifts, with many differing requirements from our customers, depending on the loads being handled, the working environment and the right energy solutions.

“Whether it’s our recent Traigo80 trucks that truly allow customers to make the shift to electric power, without compromising on performance during intensive use or our new compact Traigo24 models that make it easy for customers with occasional use in compact applications, we are able to meet every need.”

The extremely compact chassis design of this new 24-volt electric forklift makes it ideal in tight spaces and confined areas. Highly manoeuvrable, it is perfect for stacking loads in narrow aisles, even with the 1.5 tonnes model that has a new shorter chassis enhancing driveability and efficiency with the highest capacity. The Toyota Traigo24 delivers a combination of agility, ease of use and efficiency for simple, occasional handling.

Despite the Traigo24’s compact dimensions, the operator feels comfortable in the driver’s seat thanks to numerous ergonomic features that improve the working environment and productivity.  The integrated display provides key operational information within easy reach, such as lift height, load weight and mast position. The redesigned lower dashboard also helps to increase efficiency by providing excellent forward visibility. On top of this, more space has been created for the operator’s feet, with a new pedal layout, and a tilting steering column with position memory.

Additionally, drivers can choose from a range of controls that best fit their driving style: mini-levers, a multi-function control unit, or the standard driver-side levers.  All of these features contribute to improved productivity, efficiency and enhanced operator safety.

Energy-efficient power

The 24V electric range is available with lithium-ion power technology as well as traditional lead-acid batteries. A choice of different Intelligent Energy Packs are available, based on high-density lithium-ion battery solutions from Toyota Material Handling. Allowing for maximum energy efficiency while reducing CO2 emissions and energy costs, the concept enables customers to calculate the optimum combination of battery and charger to suit working patterns, taking into account operating times and scheduled breaks during the normal working shift.

The new exterior design gives the Traigo24 a ‘family look and feel’ in line with the Traigo48 and the recently launched Traigo80. Both the overhead guard and the counterweight have been redesigned to facilitate material handling operations specific to this truck. In addition to being able to operate inside and occasionally outside, the Traigo24 offers different cabin options such as a canvas cabin and a cabin without doors or front windshield and roof to guarantee optimal operator comfort and efficiency.

Safety first

The Toyota Traigo24 will be available as a connected smart truck, allowing customers to monitor and improve their operations in terms of safety, productivity and cost-efficiency. Some of the features that are available with Toyota’s I_Site fleet management system include: PIN code/Smart Access, only authorising drivers with a PIN code or Smart card, both integrated in the dashboard next to the display, to activate the truck. Another I_Site feature available as an option is the pre-operational check, allowing drivers to start up the forklift only after having answered a series of questions that ensure the truck is reliable and safe to operate.

All Traigo24 electric trucks are equipped as standard with Toyota’s unique System of Active Stability (SAS) ensuring excellent forklift stability by protecting the operator and load when driving, turning, and lifting. SAS provides advanced technology increasing safety and improving productivity.

The new 24V model also offers a range of options to enhance productivity and efficiency in material handling operations. Two new masts have been added to the new Traigo24 model, the FV and FSV masts, both increasing visibility on fork tips for enhanced productivity but also allowing manoeuvrability in low-ceiling work environments which is a nice add-on to the truck’s compactness.

Moreover, powerful front and rear LED lights are now available as options on this new electric forklift guaranteeing safer operation in dark areas but also reducing energy consumption.

IFOY FINALIST FOCUS: MOFFETT E5 25.4 NX

In the first of our deep-dives looking at each of the IFOY Award nominated finalists ahead of the winners are announced at BMW World on 30th June, we look at the MOFFETT E5 24.4 NX truck-mounted electric multidirectional forklift from HIAB, a part of Cargotec Corporation.

IFOY category: Special Vehicle / Warehouse Truck

The MOFFETT ‘E5 25.4 NX’ is the latest addition to the all-electric truck mounted forklift range and part of the second generation of the world’s first all-electric truck mounted forklift. The machine now also comes with 4-way steering (Multi-Directional) and the first moving mast machine offering zero-emission, noiseless deliveries and health and safety benefits for drivers. They have not been seen before in this type of application.

Description

The MOFFETT E5-NX e-Series Electric Truck Mounted Forklift is the world’s first all-electric 4-Way Truck Mounted Truck (Multi-Directional) with a moveable mast. Within the dimensions of an existing M5 machine, the manufacturer was able to install batteries, motors, controls, etc. to fully electrify the forklift. The M5 is known for its off-road capabilities, which are now no problem even fully electric.

Typically, truck mounted forklifts are used in many applications around the world such as handling construction materials, lumber, gas, beverage/food/last mile deliveries, agricultural products (turf, animal feed) and many more. There is an increasing demand for lower-emission or zero-emission and noise-free (i.e.: morning or night) deliveries, which poses a challenge for current diesel-powered forklifts. With the new e-series, it is now possible to make zero-emission, noiseless deliveries directly from the delivery truck, even in warehouses. With a truck-mounted forklift, no additional staff is needed, which is an advantage in Europe and countries struggling with driver shortages, and also in compliance with safety regulations due to Covid-19.

CLICK HERE to watch a video of the E5

IFOY TEST REPORT

The MOFFETT E5-NX is the world’s first all-electric 4-way truck-mounted forklift. It is the bigger brother of last year’s IFOY winner. It is also the first all-electric truck with what the manufacturer calls a “moving mast”.

The unique mast can be extended, making it easier to load and unload trucks from one side. In addition, this design makes it extremely light. Extending the mast is much faster than with comparable vehicles with pantograph masts. Also, the speed at which the mast is extended is adjustable by the manufacturer. Nevertheless, this vehicle also has a pantograph, namely on the fork carriage. After the mast is extended, this pantograph brings the fork carriage forward.

For loading and unloading loads at the far end of the loading area, the test vehicle is also equipped with the optional Lift Assist. This patented system tilts two armrests against the side of the load floor. Especially when the load’s centre of gravity is further away from the truck, Lift Assist helps prevent tipping. Loads can be set down and picked up more easily and safely at the far end of the load floor. The reach is exactly the same as the loading area of a truck. When handling loads at this maximum distance of about 2.2 metres, the residual capacity of the truck – thanks to the special design – remains at 2.5 tonnes.

As there is no IFOY test protocol for this type of truck, this test report only describes the testers’ impressions. In short: the testers are impressed by the nomination. The E5-NX makes a robust and solid impression, although the legroom and the position of the pedals deserve extra attention according to the testers. When working, the advantages of an all-electric truck quickly become clear. The lack of a brake pedal (the vehicle brakes exclusively via the motor) is not a problem at all, as the brakes work as expected. The braking force is even dependent on the driving speed so that the driver does not experience any surprises.

Two other advantages stand out in the impression: the all-electric truck-mounted forklift guarantees quiet and emission-free operation. This means that the forklift can also be used indoors without any problems, so that deliveries from outdoors to indoors are also possible.

Thanks to its quiet operation, it can also be used in the early morning hours or at night without disturbing the surroundings. In addition, the operator does not need to wear hearing protection. A low noise level also means that the operator is generally more aware of his surroundings. For added safety, the steering speed can also be adjusted.

The 4-way concept in itself is not new and enables smooth driving, even with long loads and narrow passages. However, the system has been further improved on this truck. For example, the wheels are automatically and electronically controlled into the correct position. When driving sideways, the reverse warning can also be heard, which the testers found annoying.

The lithium-ion battery can be easily recharged if necessary while driving to the next delivery address. In many cases, however, the minimum operating time of six to eight hours is more than sufficient.

IFOY Test Verdict:

Following the introduction of the first all-electric, IFOY AWARD winning MOFFETT E4-25.3 NX, Hiab-Cargotec Engineering Ireland takes a logical next step towards a zero-emission and quieter future for 4-way forklifts too with the MOFFETT E5 25.4 NX. Intelligent features such as the movable mast and the patented Lift Assist make work safer and more pleasant for the operator.

IFOY INNOVATION CHECK

Market relevance: With the E5-25.4 NX, MOFFETT continues to respond to demands for individual delivery of goods at modern requirements. The environmentally friendly version of the truck-mounted forklift reaches a new performance range and is now on a par with comparable diesel-powered vehicles. The circle of interested parties will thus continue to increase, which is seen as having a high market relevance.

Customer benefit: Thanks to the emission-free operation, the user can move a wide variety of goods in load ranges up to 2.5 t very flexibly in confined spaces outdoors and indoors. The electric drive eliminates the usual restrictions when driving indoors. A further developed manoeuvrability with 4-way steering as well as the increased performance now allow easy traction on different surfaces even on steep inclines. The significantly lower noise emission of the truck offers a high increase in the daytime flexibility of deliveries. In addition, the lower operating costs lead to a positive cost-benefit balance after a manageable operating time.

Novelty: Compared to the previous model, further technical details have been added that continue to make the E5-25.4 NX appear innovative. The increased performance means that the machine has no disadvantages in a direct comparison with the diesel-powered M5-NX. A multidirectional drive solution for long goods and further options for integrating flexible lift masts are examples of innovative additions to the MOFFETT E-Series.

Functionality / type of implementation: As expected, the E5-25.4 NX features a solid yet high-quality design that is fully up to the high demands placed on truck-mounted forklifts. The all-electric version can be compared with other already electrified in-plant industrial trucks in terms of operating comfort and control sensitivity. The functions have been expanded and offer more flexibility, e.g. for long goods on various terrains.

Conclusion: MOFFETT shows that technical progress does not remain stagnant and once again delivers a convincing candidate for the IFOY AWARD.

market relevance +
customer benefit ++
novelty +
functionality / type of implementation ++
[++ very good / + good / Ø balanced / – less / – – not available]

For an overview of all the finalists, visit www.ifoy.org

CLICK HERE to find out more about the MOFFATT E5.

Subscribe

Get notified about New Episodes of our Podcast, New Magazine Issues and stay updated with our Weekly Newsletter.