Stage V regulations will bring a new requirement to reduce emissions

As the deadline for Europe's tighter emissions restrictions approaches, more manufacturers are rolling out updated engines.

JCB has announced that a number of LPG-powered models in its LPG Logistics Teletruk range are now Stage V-compliant - four months ahead of the introduction of the new emissions standard.

Due to be implemented from January 1, 2019, Stage V of the EU regulations will bring a new requirement to reduce Particulate Number (PN) emissions alongside continued control of particulate matter (PM) and nitrogen oxide (NOx) emissions in the EU for non-road vehicles.

The Stage V-compliant Kubota clean burn engines have been introduced to JCB's LPG Logistics models TLT 25/27/30 with immediate effect.

In addition to meeting the latest emissions standards, the upgraded models are 25% more fuel efficient than the versions they replace and, typically, can undertake a full eight-hour shift on a single bottle of gas. This significant reduction in fuel consumption not only optimises truck up-time but also means total cost of truck ownership is minimised.

Meanwhile, Hyster Europe has revealed that Stage V engines will be available to order in EU and other regulated markets on several of its forklift series in Q4 2018, including models in its flagship Fortens IC range.

"As part of our commitment to offering customers 360-degree solutions, Hyster lift trucks already provide a range of power options and different engines to meet various specific application needs," says Matthew Allen, solutions manager - counterbalance and big trucks for Hyster Europe. "However, the latest engine developments are great news for customers as they will be able to specify Hyster products which both provide greater fuel efficiencies and reinforce their green credentials."

In response to the new regulations, the engines for several Hyster lift truck models with 1.5 to 3.5 T lift capacity will be Stage V-compliant from early 2019.

"Though the engines are being updated, operations can still expect the same reliability, performance and all-round benefits from their Hyster lift trucks," says Allen. "For instance, those using a 2 to 3 T capacity Hyster Fortens will continue to enjoy a low cost of ownership, optimal up-time, options to enhance the driver environment, and various solutions for industry-specific needs including fleet management."

Like JCB, Hyster sources engines from Kubota and a 2.4L engine will be available with a DPF to deliver high power with low fuel consumption, low noise levels and even lower emissions.

LPG versions of the Fortens and XT forklifts with 1.5 to 3.5 T lift capacity will feature either a PSI or Kubota engine with control system upgrades and standard catalytic converter to treat the engine exhaust.

Last month, Yale Europe Materials Handling confirmed that Stage V engines will be available for some Yale trucks from the fourth quarter of 2018.