Mitsubishi introduces lean, green machines
Almere, The Netherlands
Mitsubishi Forklift Trucks has launched the FB40-50(C) 2 series 4.0-5.0 T electric counterbalance trucks which it says are lean and green.
The forklifts, which replace the previous three-model series, comprise seven models that include compact and extended load centre models.
The new FB Series is said to combine two contradictory characteristics: high energy efficiency and high performance. Mitsubishi Forklift Trucks says this was achieved using the latest AC motor technology in conjunction with an intelligent design of chassis and components that has shortened distances between electronic and hydraulic components.
The company claims the new FB40-50(C)2 series uses up to 20% less energy than previous models.

The Linde Safety Pilot assists the forklift driver to operate the truck safely via a display on the driver's workstation.

Linde launches driver assistance system
Aschaffenburg, Germany
Linde Material Handling will introduce the Linde Safety Pilot system at the World of Material Handling customer event at the Mainz Exhibition Centre in May.
Using a display on the driver's workstation, the Safety Pilot assists the forklift driver to operate the work equipment safely and helps avoid dangerous situations, minimising the risk of an accident and improving occupational safety.
The display mounted at eye level shows the driver the load centre of gravity, the load weight currently placed on the fork arms, the current lift height, the tilt angle of the fork arms and the maximum lift height up to which the load may be raised.
To help drivers quickly identify all of these values, the display features a clear design, it shows information in image format and the volume of numbers shown is kept to a minimum.

LLM introduces redesigned forklift
Toronto, Canada
Load Lifter Manufacturing has launched its fully redesigned Laborer forklift.
Developed originally for the mining industry, the Laborer is a heavy-duty, all-purpose rough-terrain forklift that promises "big machine features in a condensed format".
LLM says that unlike industrial forklifts that share a smaller profile, the Laborer comes in two- and four-wheel drive, and offers true rough-terrain performance for a wide range of applications. It can negotiate cramped areas and move materials from inside warehouses to the outdoors in all types of conditions.
The Laborer's power train consists of a 65 HP Cummins Interim Tier 4 Diesel engine, a four-speed shuttle transmission and heavy-duty planetary drive and steer axles.
LLM offers the Laborer in 6,000 and 8,000 lb. (2,722 and 3,629 kg) capacities with lift heights to 18 ft (5.5 m).