I see your point on the insides being very similar. But is that because every manufacturer has to contend with the same laws of physics, has to comply with the same CARB standards, and has to satisfy the same customer requirements? That may be the start of an answer to your question.

Also, when you pull the exteriors of all these forklifts what power train manufacturers are we seeing? With exception of a very few GM engines sold, we see Nissan, Mazda, Mitsubishi, and Toyota. Does anyone disagree that the power trains on these forklifts represent in excess of 50% of the value of the components? Are the "traditional US manufactures" in a state of denial on this issue? Why are we not using Ford, Chrysler, or GM power trains in all our forklifts? My answer to this question is simple and I believe is true. Because OUR CUSTOMERS told us what power trains they want through their purchasing decisions.

Of course this discussion does not restrict us to just ICE forklifts. Anyone else have a market where Class I, II, and III represents over 50% of the forklift sales in their territories? Any Japanese forklifts in that group?

Thanks for the ideas and insights!