Nexen has started a new era of UK production as the first of its forklifts manufactured at its European headquarters roll off the production line this month.

The British firm moved its premium "X range" production to its 5,000 sqm
(53, 820 sqft.) Lowestoft, UK site after facing delays getting new models produced at its Taiwanese factory (Forkliftaction.com News #536).

Managing director Tim Mason says: "UK production will enable us to meet the growing demands of our European, North American and Middle East customers, while allowing our Taiwanese facility to continue to supply the Asian, African and Australasian markets."

LPG and diesel models up to 3.5 T will initially be produced but 4-5 T models will be added in the subsequent months.

The Lowestoft facility is expected to grow its workforce in the future, as Nexen aims for its R & D and sales departments to meet its expected volume of 2,500 units by the end of 2015, increasing to over 5000 units by the end of 2020.

Nexen says it is confident of exceeding these figures through the continued expansion of its extensive worldwide network of dealers, and the continued introduction of innovative new models.

The move will enable Nexen to expand its forklift range at a significantly faster rate, and also meet increased demand following its entry into the North American market.

According to Nexen, the concept behind the design of its X range, is a forklift that is "the quickest and easiest to service in the market today". Therefore, the firm focused on engineering efficiency and simplicity of maintenance for the family of forklifts.