Airtrax, Inc, the developer of the upcoming Sidewinder omni-directional forklift, has launched a financing subsidiary, Airtrax Financial Services, LLC (AFS).

AFS will procure financing for the lease and purchase of Airtrax equipment. AFS plans to introduce new loan programs and services targeted to consumers and dealers as well as third-party contractors.

Airtrax president Peter Amico said offering finance options would encourage more rapid adoption of the company's products.

"As the growth of the materials handling equipment industry continues, AFS offers companies the ability to finance new and replacement forklifts and aerial work platforms," he said. "AFS will also help to strengthen our dealer and client relationships, and create the opportunity for higher resale values."

Amico recently announced that the Sidewinder forklift would be available this year, after wheel manufacturer Timken delivered the first production versions of the forklift's innovative wheels (Forkliftaction.com News #172).