Cat Lift Trucks has launched the NR3000 Series of reach trucks, with all-AC-powered traction, lift and power steering motors.

The series features the first truly brushless stand-up reach truck in the US market, Cat says. Cat's broad use of brushless AC power in the NR3000 Series is a contrast to other brands, which make less use of such elements in reach trucks. Service intervals can be extended by eliminating hydraulic and traction system contactors.

"Customers expect quality, demand productivity and insist on a lower cost of ownership," said Chris Kuny, sales manager for warehouse products.

The new line-up includes 11 models and/or options, and the variations open additional application opportunities for Cat Lift Trucks.

Single reach, deep reach and straddle configurations are included. The NR3000 Series makes extensive use of leading-edge technology and features display-based diagnostics for quick troubleshooting by service technicians, Mr Kuny said.

Capacities range from 2500 pounds to 4500 pounds (1200 to 2000 kilograms), and lift heights extend to 425 inches (10,750 millimetres).

Customers can customise drive and hydraulic settings based on applications and operator experience levels. Settings control travel speed, acceleration rate, regenerative braking response and steering sensitivity.

The series targets the western hemisphere reach truck market, which primarily uses a standing operator compartment and a fork carriage mounted on an extending, or reaching, pantograph. This format, widely accepted in the Americas, supports established practices for storage racking.

By comparison, European customers more typically favour a truck with a seated operator and moving mast.