Yale Materials Handling Corporation has entered the US electric counterbalance forklift market with the introduction of the ERP-DH AC-powered forklift.

Yale president Don Chance said the ERP-DH was the first in a new line of Yale AC-powered forklifts.

"This truck represents Yale's dedication to our customers - listening to and understanding their needs, evaluating their changing materials handling business, and designing a top-quality product that exceeds all expectations," he said.

The ERP-DH had lower noise levels, less heat and a smaller turning radius compared to other forklifts of its size and class, he said. The forklift is available in 4,000 pound (1.8 tonnes) to 6,000 pound (2.7 tonnes) capacities.

The ERP-DH is available as the ERP-ALF in the UK market. No model information was given for other world markets.