Erkan and Tuna Boylu with their new forklift at CeMAT

Production has just begun on Turkey's first locally designed and produced forklift, the Anadolulift.

Erkan Boylu, managing director of Modern Dis Ticaret, aims to produce 50 units in the first year and hopes to ramp up production as demand increases.

"In the beginning, we are aiming at the domestic Turkish market, but soon we can start exports," he tells Forkliftaction News.

Boylu's forklift experience dates back to the now-defunct British forklift brand Coventry Climax. He was the managing director of the manufacturing plant in Turkey which closed in 1986, and subsequently started Modern as a forklift repair specialist.

His son Tuna, a mechanical engineer who works alongside Boylu at Modern, has been the driving force behind the home-grown forklift. It's not just a replica of the mainstream equipment and its main point of difference is a "full-free view" triplex mast which is in the process of being patented. The unique design makes it easier for the operator to see over the load on the forks and improves safety.

The Anadolulift drew some attention at its debut at the recent CeMAT show in Hannover, which attracted "some potential customers", according to Boylu.

Anadolulifts are currently being built in Modern's workshop, and the company needs additional investment capital to speed up production. Boylu recognises that expansion will also require a sales network and expanded marketing activities.

"It is, of course, difficult to compete with major players, but since our triplex mast innovation is important, we may work together with them if they want," Boylu says, hinting that he may be willing to share his design with other manufacturers.

While the first large-scale production continues, Boylu expects the mast patent to be granted by the end of the year. "Following this, we will decide on our future strategy," he explains.