Jungheinrich has introduced fourth generation AC technology across its electric counterbalance range. The company says this has given its trucks improved efficiency and reduced energy consumption. Craig Johnson, marketing manager, Jungheinrich, says: “Our tests have shown that in comparison with models from our competitors our trucks are 20 per cent more efficient.
“The low energy costs are further reduced through energy reclamation during braking, so that a battery change in most applications over two shifts is no longer necessary. The technology also gives productivity a boost because the truck can accelerate more quickly than less advanced systems, which means it moves more loads per shift,” says Johnson.
The company is also working closely with some of the leading automotive companies on the development of energy-efficient components. The motor in its latest VFG series of engine-powered hydrostatic counterbalanced trucks, is supplied by Volkswagen, and has been designed to reduce noise levels, emissions and fuel consumption.
“Our test cycles have shown that over the course of 2000 hours of typical operation the new truck will save some 2500 Euros in fuel costs in comparison with a standard conventional counterbalance truck.”
The VFG series complies with the European Union’s Emissions Guidelines, which are due to come into effect in 2012.
The company has introduced two ranges of three- and four-wheel electric counterbalance trucks. The trucks, complete with fourth generation AC technology, feature sideways battery exit and full electric steering.
The EFG 213-220 (three-wheel configuration with twin-coupled rear wheels) and 316-320 (four-wheel) ranges can lift loads of up to 2,000kg to a lift height of up to 6,500mm. The top speed of the trucks is 17 km per hour. The truck comes with an optional, integrated onboard charger, which monitors the acid state and temperature of the battery. If necessary, it issues a warning for error functions.
The trucks feature a choice of two types of control systems – Solo Pilot, or Multi Pilot – which are integrated into the arm rest. The Solo version features individual fingertip control levers for all main functions, and the Multi is joystick-based.
Three operator assistance systems ensure operator safety. For example, the truck’s Access Control system means the truck can only be operated once certain safety mechanisms such as the driver’s seat switch and the safety belt have been activated.
Drive control has curve control integrated which safely reduces the truck’s speed if it is travelling too fast for the angle of the turn it is undertaking. The truck’s travel speed is also reduced if the forks are raised above 1.5 metres.
