The DCF toplifts operate at full capacity when lifting a 9'6" container to the five-high position, even when the spreader is extended.

Kalmar has responded to North American market demand by launching the DCF series of toplifts, a new generation machine it says combines "high productivity and uptime with low operating costs and increased driver confidence".

The DCF toplifts were designed to respond to the needs of the most demanding terminal operators in North America, a Kalmar statement said.

Kalmar said the machines offered improved cycle times through travelling and lifting speeds up to 50 per cent faster than the series' predecessor and a lifting capacity of up to 45 tonnes when lifting a nine foot six inch box to a five-high position.

Its faster lifting speed is due to use of a re-generation system, the same technical solution adopted in reach stacker lifting cylinders.

"The new DCF series is truly setting new standards in North American toplift applications and is built to meet and exceed customer expectations in this market," Dan Pettersson, Kalmar Industries' heavy lift trucks product manager, said.

"With optional lifting capacities of 36 tonnes, 41 tonnes and 45 tonnes, customers get the best lifting power currently available on the market," he said.

The machines' ergonomics include low vibration and noise levels of 70 dB, improved 360-degree visibility from the cabin and "fingertip" handling. The longer, six-metre wheelbase and wider steering axle provide increased driver stability.

Kalmar claims the machines' scheduled maintenance, at 500-hour intervals, is the best in the industry.