Forklift manufacturers continue to bring new models to market with many of them launching multiple options, not just one.
Combilift is a case in point. Celebrating 25 years of innovation, the company is planning to ensure that 2023 will be a year to remember by launching multiple products across various exhibitions globally.
The first of these was the Combi-CUBE, which was launched at the LogiMAT International Intralogistics show in Stuttgart in April.
This new electric model incorporates a host of technological and design features that not only enhance handling procedures but also offer a high level of driver comfort.
Immediately noticeable is the new vibrant colour. The company says this bold fresh ‘high-vis’ Combi-green shade will contribute to improved safety as the trucks will be easily visible in their operational environment. Aside from optics, however, a focus is on a number of ergonomic features.
The driver’s position in the centre of the cab offers generous room and excellent all-round visibility. The angle of the telescopic steering column can be adjusted and the Grammer MSG65 seat, combined with hydraulic cabin mounts guarantees a comfortable ride. An adjustable arm rest is mounted to the seat suspension which incorporates a multi-function joystick and an LCD colour touch screen.
Combilift’s unique dynamic 360° steering that enables seamless directional change while on the move can be integrated into the Combi-CUBE as an optional extra, making the counterbalance forklift even more manoeuvrable.
Further notable features are the large rear wheel and rubber tyres on all three wheels. This means that this model is not restricted to super flat floors and is eminently suitable for working indoors and out, ensuring that semi-rough terrain is no impediment to reliable operation. And for quicker battery changeover during heavy shifts, two new easy-change roll-out batteries are provided (Overall Design Copyright 015019216-0001)
The Combi-CUBE launch was swiftly followed by that of the Combi-CB70E at Ligna in Hannover in May.
This model, also electric and also in the high-vis Combi-green livery, claims the distinction of being the shortest 7t capacity counterbalance truck on the market whilst also benefitting from multi-directional ability, enabling the versatile space-saving handling of both long and bulky loads.
Design features incorporated into the highcapacity Combi-CB70E such as its large superelastic tyres and compact wheelbase make it ideally suited for the operational demands of the timber industry. With a 7,000kg/15,500lb lift capacity, this model benefits from an impressively small footprint as well as exceptional manoeuvrability meaning that it can easily move bulky loads of timber around in confined spaces.
Features in the spacious cab include generous glazing for excellent all-round visibility, the tilting steering column, hydraulic steering and the Grammer MSG65 seat.
Combilift says that what sets the Combi- CB70E apart from other forklifts is its gas strut suspension cab, which uses components such as those found in large scale industrial machinery with cab suspension. Combined with the super-elastic tyres, this guarantees the smoothest of rides over uneven or less than perfect ground conditions such as those typically experienced in lumber yards.
Combilift’s newly developed, patent pending Auto Swivel Seat was also premiered at the Ligna show. This optional feature automatically engages and swivels the seat and armrest 15° to the right or left to accord with the direction of travel selected by the operator – reducing driver strain, particularly when travelling in reverse.
The truck also features Combilift’s internationally patented and Red Dot awarded independent electric traction, which provides all front and rear drive wheels with 100% traction control. This negates the need for differential lock on slippery surfaces and significantly reduces long load momentum twisting when travelling sideways. Each electric drive incorporates parking and regenerative dynamic braking for power efficiency. Roll-out access for major electrical components also simplifies maintenance tasks.
“The increased capacities that we are offering in our electric range will answer the demand for ever more powerful products, which at the same time helps companies to achieve their aims for more sustainable operations,” said Martin McVicar, Combilift CEO and co-founder.
HUBTEX has also been busy on the development front, unveiling the FluX 30, which is the latest generation of the company’s electric multi-directional forklift truck series.
This new version of the FluX handles both pallet and long-load transport in a single vehicle. The 3-tonne capacity FluX can be used as a front and sideloader, making this machine suitable for a wide range of sectors, from the timber and metalworking industries, through to the building materials trade.
HUBTEX has now moved the driver’s cab to the middle of the vehicle, giving the operator a higher-up, better all-round view, especially their view of the load being carried. This improved visibility is enhanced by the vehicle’s new, more compact dimensions, which include a new mast tilt feature.
The spacious cabin offers the driver maximum comfort and freedom of movement. The standard cabin can be customised with a door, windows, and other options for maximum comfort in outdoor use. All vehicle information is clearly displayed on the colour display of the latest generation HIT MINI (HUBTEX Information Terminal).
Being up to 20% smaller, the FluX is more manoeuvrable and agile too. The innovative design has simple access to individual components, making them easier to access for servicing and programmed maintenance.
Additionally, the patented 360° HX steering has been added to the compact three-wheel running gear for the first time, ensuring smooth changes in direction from longitudinal to transverse travel without stopping.
The switch from a four to a three-wheel running system has done nothing to impair the features that people have come to expect from HUBTEX, in terms of ergonomics and freedom of movement.
For instance, the new FluX has retained the spoked steering wheel and joystick for userfriendly operation, as well as the spacious driver’s cab, providing the operator with greater comfort for those jobs that can end up taking a little longer.
In addition, the patented HX steering has been developed further to enable it to be fitted to all HUBTEX electric vehicles with a three-wheel running system. The HX steering mechanism permits smooth transitions between steering modes, thus reducing tyre wear.
Thanks to the HUBTEX all-wheel multidirectional steering, large steering angles and the smallest possible turning radii in all driving directions can be guaranteed. Energyefficient and powerful three-phase drives and three-phase pump units are used.
This is particularly advantageous when used in freely movable warehouses with many direction changes, when loading and unloading trucks, or in block storage.
Operators can also wave goodbye to timeconsuming and fiddly manoeuvring, resulting in faster throughput times. Furthermore, the compact multi-directional truck is said to be suitable for combined indoor and outdoor use in the warehouse, thanks to its soft elastic tyres and a maximum speed of 12km/h.
This truck series is equipped with a three-wheel chassis to optimise driving and steering. In order to respond to a wide variety of ground conditions, such as asphalt or paved surfaces, the trucks are equipped with elastic tyres (EL) as standard.
Masts and fork carriages were specially developed for this vehicle series. The focus of the development was to optimise visibility of the load and the route of the truck. The results are the very compact lift masts and the optimised fork carriages with hydraulic sideshift.
With a fixed mast and mast tilt, the trucks provide effective and safe handling in the rack system. A choice of Simplex, Duplex, and Triplex masts with different lift heights up to 7,500mm are available for the FluX.
Its large battery (48V, 930Ah) means it can go on for more than a whole shift. An optional lithium-ion battery provides very quick charging, supporting its use in a multishift operation.
Baumann says that its new EGX X-Plus Series is “set to redefine the electric sideloader market”.
With capacities up to eight tonnes, Baumann claims the newly unveiled model “not only outperforms all previous electrics, but surpasses previous IC trucks in terms of durability, efficiency, safety and ergonomics”.
The company’s award-winning Archimedes outreach system, energy efficient motors and load-sensing hydraulics are now accompanied by lithium-ion battery options, extended reach and the SafeLoad Assistance safety system.
Baumann’s global marketing manager, Tony Benson, believes the majority of customers now look at electric power as the default option for safer long load handling and says that Baumann is the only sideloader manufacturer to offer 120-volt technology.
“The EGX is our flagship electric model, ideally suited to multi-shift applications and equipped with incredible technology,” he said. “The X-Plus Series model brings even higher levels of control and handling capabilities all the way up to eight tonnes capacity. We are very excited by the extended run times, the re-distribution of weight, and the excellent levels of performance that our customers expect and demand. Whilst every application is different, we believe that as customers experience the additional run hours and higher levels of efficiency it will re-set the dial on what’s considered possible.”
With SafeLoad Assistance as one of its key features, operators can now experience a heightened level of confidence and a significant reduction in potential accidents (see also feature pp86-87).
The SafeLoad Assistance system works by calculating the stability limit of the truck and using sensors within the chassis that consider the forces that are exerted by the load weight, the position of both the load and the truck, and a number of other factors.
“This is a game changer,” said managing director, Klaus Pirpamer. “A decade ago, this is something we could have only dreamed about. We have spent many years looking at this. The technology has evolved to allow us to find the right way to answer the load centre question, to give the accurate levels of safety the market has always desired.”
“The biggest challenge was finding the best way to take into account all the many variables at play,” added technical director, Riccardo Bove. “We have tried different methods, some were extremely promising in accurately predicting the tipping point, but because it is a crucial safety measurement, the system must be infallible. That is perhaps the reason why no company has been able to solve the problem, until now.”
The company added that the lithium-ion battery technology in the EGX has also been adapted specifically for the series and provides long operating times and fast charging, allowing for more efficient use of time and resources. Combined with the higher voltage and high-efficiency inverters, and the re-distributed chassis weight, energy is now delivered more efficiently to the motors and regenerated back into the battery under braking. The technology contributes to results that have surprised even Baumann’s R&D team.
Electric power isn’t for everyone, of course, and Hyster is catering for that with the launch of a new series of IC forklifts with capacities up to seven tonnes that are ideally suited to a range of handling operations. These latest additions to the Hyster UT series will help carry out straightforward operations while keeping costs low and productivity high, said the company.
The Hyster H4.0-5.0UT and H5.0-7.0UT6 forklifts are a versatile addition to the existing range of UT electric and IC lift trucks and warehouse equipment. This series is well suited to operations seeking lift trucks that are easy-to-use, with a low cost of ownership at lower operating hours.
“These lift trucks are ideal for less arduous tasks,” said Eva Nachtergaele, solutions manager EMEA for Hyster. “The UT series meets this need at an attractive price, giving our customers greater choice for matching the right truck to their specific application.”
With capacities from four tonnes to seven tonnes, and a choice of front-end equipment options, the Hyster H4.0-5.0UT and H5.0- 7.0UT6 lift trucks are designed and built to strike an optimum balance between a low cost of operation and high productivity. The lift trucks are equipped with high quality and durable Kubota SI and CI industrial engines, compliant to the latest Stage V emission regulations for the EU.
Applications such as construction materials retail, workshops, and some manufacturing operations will find the trucks fit-for-purpose, as well as simple to operate, service, and maintain.
Through-mast visibility on the new Hyster lift trucks helps drive productivity, enabling operators to maintain sight of the load as well as their forward vision, while travelling. A high strength overhead guard enhances operator protection, and for operations with confined spaces, the adjustable steering wheel enables good manoeuvrability.
Reliable operation and reduced wear and tear are achieved with the use of high-quality components, efficient filtration, and sufficient cooling, all of which contribute to a low cost of ownership, said the company. The fast availability of cost-effective replacement parts, exchangeable components across models, and a large access area for service and repairs also help reduce maintenance requirements and costs.
“Another key factor is getting the best productivity from your operators, so the truck is designed with them in mind too,” said Ms Nachtergaele. “For example, the ergonomic operator compartment has a familiar, automotive-style layout for easy operation, enhancing speed and productivity.”
A 3.5in LCD display, provides convenient viewing of the display data when driving and operating. Meanwhile, a full suspension seat offers comfort, and a low step provides easy access during busy shifts.
