The showcasing of Airtrax's Sidewinder omni-directional lift truck at ProMat 2005 could translate into new orders and distribution partnerships, says company chief executive Peter Amico.

Airtrax's first Sidewinder production model was exhibited at ProMat 2005 in Chicago, Illinois, from January 10 to January 13.

"With the initial wheels received, we have begun the production process and plan to move as quickly as possible to start to fill existing, multiple orders from our dealership network, as well as recently signed distributors in Canada and the United Arab Emirates," Amico said.

"We have begun production on the first 10 Sidewinder units, and are on pace to generate revenues in the current quarter."

Unlike other trucks, the Sidewinder can turn 360 degrees "on its own footprint". The patented wheel was designed and developed by Airtrax after receiving a technology transfer from the US Navy.

Last month, Clark Material Handling Co's former managing director Fil Filipov was appointed to Airtrax's board of directors (Forkliftaction.com News #189).

Airtrax is expected to close its acquisition of FiLCO GmbH this year. FiLCO GmbH was formed after Filipov acquired the bankrupt former Clark Material Handling Gmbh in April 2003 (Forkliftaction.com News #187).