Paul McNally

Hubtex used IMHX to show its MAXX trucks, recently victorious in the FLTA awards. Sales and marketing manager Paul McNally said the MAXX was "a bit of a step away from customised solutions to make something a little bit more standardised".

"This gives us a bit more of a uniform approach, but using the technology and developments of our custom products," he explained.

McNally also revealed that the newly developed PhoeniX series is set to gradually replace all Hubtex vehicles based on the ESTL platform.

The new electric multidirectional sideloader generation includes extended Industry 4.0 and automation features.

"It is the first electric sideloader with a 100% electric steering system," said group marketing manager Michael Roebig. "The responsiveness and precision are greatly enhanced."

Another advantage of the electric steering is that it allows the truck to be AGV-ready. "We have customers asking about AGVs and, in this market, we have the technology and the solutions, including innovative ways of adding in additional sensors and additional assistance packages that allow the operator to work in either a semi- or fully automated environment," McNally said.

Roebig said the Hubtex staff on the stand were also telling prospects about the new ROXX Electro Compact forklifts with capacities from 8 T to 30 T which were too big to bring to the show.

According to McNally, almost 100% of sales in the UK are now electric, with "customers recognising the energy efficiency and control".