The California Air Resources Board (ARB) has certified the 2012 model-year large spark-ignited engines of Nissan Forklift Corp.

Nissan says it is the first forklift manufacturer to gain certification for its own line of industrial engines.

ARB rigorously tested and monitored the forklift engines for compliance with California environmental standards and guidelines, including low-emission level performance.

"Nissan Forklift is using leading-edge technology to develop innovative products that provide a positive impact on the environment," says Steve Cianci, Nissan Forklift director of marketing and product management.

The Nissan Forklift Platinum II and GO4 series have lifting capacities from 3,000-11,000 lb. (1,350-4,950 kg) and offer ARB-certified liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) or dual-fuel (gasoline/LPG) engines.

ARB requires annual certification of engines. The 2012 engine series is the same as the 2011 engine series and will be phased into production to fulfill 2012 model-year requirements.

ARB, an operation of the California Environmental Protection Agency, issued the 2012 certification on 18 July.

Marengo-based Nissan Forklift has a Western Hemisphere network of more than 100 authorised dealerships with more than 225 locations across North, Central and South America. The operation is a wholly owned subsidiary of Nissan Forklift Co Ltd of Yokohama, Japan. Parent company Nissan Motor Co Ltd spun off its global forklift-focused industrial machinery division into the Yokohama subsidiary on 1 October 2010.