The Baoli KBG25 made its US debut

KION's economy Baoli line is making its way into US dealerships, with more than 50 KION North America dealers eligible to carry the brand, according to Jonathan Chen, KION vice president of strategy and business development and general manager of Baoli.

KION North America this month introduced dealers to the brand (FLA #743) at its first dealer meeting since changing its name from Linde Material Handling North America.

Chen tells Forkliftaction.com News that a dedicated team has been hired for the Baoli line. "Specific staff have been hired for sales, product management and technical support of Baoli," he says.

"Baoli is also taking advantage of existing infrastructure and resources of KION North America, including the parts warehouse in Summerville, South Carolina."

The initial Baoli offering is limited to two Class V models - a 5,000 lb. (2,270 kg) and a 7,000 lb (3,120 kg) version, but a three-wheel Class I and two Class III products will be launched in mid-2016.

"Prices are on par with Chinese competitors, but we believe our products have a higher value and superior support," according to Chen.

KION North America management stresses that all decisions for Baoli are made locally in the US.

"With this new line, we combine Chinese cost competitiveness with German process rigour and, most importantly, American sales and support," Chen adds.

The US is the latest market to benefit from KION's June 2010 takeover of KION Baoli (Jiangsu) Forklift Co Ltd, the joint venture company it established with China's Jiangsu Shangqi Group Co Ltd and Jingjiang Baoli Forklift Co Ltd in 2009.

At the time, KION CEO Gordon Riske said the company would boost its position as China's top international materials handling equipment supplier with its investment in KION Baoli.

"KION Baoli with its highly competitive product portfolio is an important pillar of our strategy to expand our activities in the emerging markets," he explained.