E-steering is now standard on the VT 13-20 series

Yale Europe Materials Handling has introduced E-steering as standard to its ERP 15-20VT series three-wheel electric counterbalance forklift trucks, claiming a 10% energy performance improvement.

Now a standard feature on the 15-20 model, Yale says E-steering improves energy efficiency, allowing operators to run a longer shift before having to change the battery and also improves driver comfort and reduces noise levels.

Matthew Allen, Yale solutions manager counterbalance product, explains the benefits to both the end-user and the fleet manager: "Yale's E-steering system offers real financial savings. It means operators can use our trucks for a longer period before the battery needs to be changed.

"The system also improves driver comfort as the steering effort is adjustable and the steering always returns to the operator's preferred position when driving straight ahead."

The introduction of E-steering has resulted in a quieter truck as the hydraulic pump does not run continually. Maintenance has also been improved as the number of hydraulic lines in the steer column has been minimised, reducing the probability of leaks.

"Even with the most productive equipment, the operator still has a bearing on the effectiveness of the truck," Allen adds. "With the Yale VT series truck, the operator has a forklift that can operate for longer before battery exchange is required, meaning he can move more loads during the shift. But productivity potential is also down to the operator, and with the introduction of E-steering, drivers can maintain maximised productivity levels for longer, thanks to increased levels of comfort during operation."

Yale first flagged the E-steering technology earlier this year to accompany its E-braking system which replaced its old hydraulic brake system.