“They are all intelligently designed to offer a unique blend of high productivity, reliable proven components, fuel efficiency and outstanding driver comfort for intense use in ports or in heavy industry.” The range of nine models includes four conventional forklift models with between 25,000kg and 32,000kg lifting capacity at 1,200mm load centre. Three new ultra-compact models are built for operations where space is limited, with wheelbases of between 3.655m and 3.935m, and there are two container handlers which have a dedicated carriage for the container spreader. All models offer class-leading lifting performance, and have been re-launched featuring Tier 4i/stage IIIB compliant engines which are expected to deliver lower overall exhaust emissions and fuel savings of up to 15%.
The robust powertrain ensures increased dependability for long periods of peak power operation with protection for the engine and the 3-speed transmission.
The Hyster world class Big Truck assembly line in Nijmegen is already building the 25-32t range featuring the new Cummins QSB 6.7 engine (up to 270 hp, 201kW) which delivers rapid boost at low engine rpm and then maintains high boost at higher rpm independent of engine speed. This is due to the Variable Geometry Turbocharger (VGT™) which varies the exhaust gas flow into the turbine wheel.
In addition to the Cummins engine technologies, Hyster has introduced new performance optimisation developments, such as cooling on demand, RPM management and alternate engine idle speed, to help further reduce the total fuel consumption. “The 25-32 tonne range is packed with features to reduce energy consumption and save fuel and helps drivers maintain comfort and concentration throughout a shift” adds Antoon, explaining that the trucks only provide maximum power on demand, when it is really needed, with load-sensing hydraulics that ‘feel’ the load weight that is lifted.
As maximum loads are not always handled (and many lift modes are without load), the trucks do not always require maximum engine power and therefore less fuel will be consumed. The operating speed of the hydraulic functions (lift, tilt, sideshift, fork-positioners) can also be adjusted to suit the requirements of a specific application. The trucks are also highly versatile thanks to the ‘dual-function’ carriage. The hook-style design with a ‘quick-disconnect’ (dis)mounting feature for the forks enables fast exchange between forks and attachments such as coil rams. Sideshift and fork-positioning functions are featured as standard, and include two fork-positioning working ranges, enabling a uniquely wide ‘in-to-in’ or ‘out-to-out’ range of the forks. The robust masts offer extra strength thanks to the unique ‘6-roller’ construction, for heavy lifts up to 6.20m high.
For the operator, the Hyster ‘Vista’ Operator Compartment offers excellent comfort, outstanding ergonomics and a low noise level. The design of the cab provides the operator with excellent all-round visibility, and particularly of the operating area. The cab is ideally positioned, mid-high and towards the front, for optimal visibility, which offers excellent vision sideways and rearwards, boosting driver confidence and performance.
“We have also made Tier4i/Stage IIIB compliance easy for the operator by using EGR* engine technology, which means that the end user does not have to change the way it operates. Diesel fuel is added to the tank in exactly the same way and the engine does the rest with no additional equipment, additives or maintenance regimes, unlike SCR** technology” Antoon adds.
Operators can also select either an ECO-eLo “fuel efficiency” or HiP “high performance” mode. The HiP mode is the normal operating mode, whereas the ECO-eLo mode reduces the maximum engine speed and optimises fuel efficiency.
Maintenance requirements are kept to a minimum with features such as oil-immersed brakes and increased service intervals, contributing to lower overall operating costs. The tilting cab, which ensures easy access to key components, also makes servicing easier. The entire Hyster ‘Big Truck’ range is available with various configurations and options to suit specific application requirements and this model is also available with Tier 3/Stage IIIA compliant engines for some regions.
Hyster products are distributed and supported through an extensive network of authorised, exclusive dealers, providing extensive local coverage through their sales and service locations across Europe, Middle East and Africa (EMEA), The Americas and Asia-Pacific.