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Forklift truck manufacturer Still has unveiled the RX 70 series of hybrid drive counterbalance forklift trucks, with load capacities from 1.6 to two tonnes, which it claims are the most fuel efficient in their class.
Still says the latest additions to the RX 70 range consumes just two litres of fuel per hour.
Additional energy savings can also be achieved through Still’s Blue Q feature, which was first installed on the electric RX 20 and RX 60 trucks at the end of 2008, and when turned on can improve energy consumption by a further ten per cent.
It does this by switching off any electrical components when they are not being used, such as reverse lights and heaters when the truck has been standing for a while.
Still estimates that saving one litre of fuel per hour, compared to its competitors’ trucks, can result in savings of around £4,500 (5,000 euros) over a five year period.
Low energy consumption is achieved through the use of a diesel-electric (or LP gas-electric) drive system that uses hybrid technology and consists of an internal combustion engine that drives a generator and in turn a control unit.
The power is transmitted by electro-magnetic force, which helps reduce the fuel and service costs as there are essentially no wearing parts.
The intelligent drive management also helps to reduce consumption. It lowers the speed of the internal combustion engine to the most economic level.
Inside the cab all round visibility is improved thanks to the slim supports and large roof windows and a curved counterweight with low installations offers a good rear view. The controls have also been laid out to allow a good view of the forks at all times, as well as the road ahead.
The cabin is spacious and has been designed to minimise vibrations. It features an adjustable seat that has been damped and the steering wheel has been placed slightly to the left of centre to increase comfort.
The trucks also feature new mini levers incorporated into the armrest, which can be used for controlling hydraulic function, allowing drivers to control the lift, tilt, side shift and drive direction.
Still claims the maintenance interval has also been extended from 500 to 1,000 hours of operation and the engine oil and oil filter only need to be changed half as often.
