01 December 2001
Mitsubishi has added four new powerful models - with capacities of up to 3.5 tonnes - to its range of electric forklift trucks.
"With the introduction of new 80-volt four-wheel electric counterbalance, Mitsubishi Forklift Trucks has completed one of the world's largest ranges," says a company spokesman. "In its pneumatic tyre range, the company now offers both three- and four-wheel electric 48-volt forklift trucks with capacities of 1,600, 1,800 and 2,000 kg and 80-volt four-wheel electric trucks with capacities of 2,000, 2,500, 3,000 and 3,500 kg."
He continues: "A combination of compact dimensions and excellent stability makes the new range ideal for both indoor and outdoor applications, including operation on uneven surfaces. Transistor-controlled hydraulics provide absolute precision in all delicate loading situations while 'fingertip' lift/lower controls and a small steering wheel enable the driver to manoeuvre quickly and precisely, even in the most confined areas.
"The floorplate is low and clear for easy entry and exit. The mast design - with narrow mast flanges, deep channel webs and "hidden" cylinders and hoses - gives exceptional visibility, ensuring the operator is in full control at all times.
"A high-visibility, automotive-style driver's console provides essential information in an easy-to-read form and includes a digital clock, battery status gauge - displayed like a car's fuel gauge - and, unusually, a speedometer. A series of indicators alert the driver to brush wear, service requirements, motor overheating and the brake fluid level.
"Like the 48-volt trucks launched recently, the 80-volt models are equipped with Mitsubishi's own programmable controller. This offers five preset operating modes to deliver job-matched performance in any working application. Because the truck can be instantly customised to the specific needs of the driver, the load and the operating conditions, throughput is maximised and so is safety. The five setting modes are: normal warehouse, high performance, economy, long travel and short shuttle.
"These presets can be fine-tuned with 26 individually-adjusted functions to match truck performance to circumstances, in moments and without any specialist tools such as handsets or analysers."
The Mitsubishi three-wheel electric lift truck range is said to be ideal for indoor operation and narrow aisle activity. "Due to the twin-wheel steer axle, these forklift trucks have a better stability than ordinary three-wheel forklift trucks. The twin-wheel steer axle also lowers the ground pressure which reduces tyre wear," says the spokesman. An electronic wheel angle sensor communicates power and torque requirement to the drive wheels which ensures safe and slip-free traction on all floor surfaces.
"By adding a compact four-wheel electric range, Mitsubishi has given truck users an even greater choice. The 48-volt four-wheel chassis was based squarely on the three-wheel model in order to benefit from the same features and proven reliability. The 48-volt four wheel electric forklift truck range is very robust and therefore suitable for both indoor and outdoor operations."
"Mitsubishi Forklift Trucks," the spokesman states, "offers one of the world's most comprehensive ranges of material handling products, including counterbalance forklift trucks and warehouse equipment. As a result, it is able to offer the perfect vehicle for almost any task, in almost any environment.'