While sales in some European nations failed to meet company expectations last year, Nissan Forklift Europe expects to strengthen its market position in 2002, the company said this week.

Sales of Nissan's DO1 1.5-tonne and DO2 series three-tonne models, widely recognised as setting new standards in operator comfort and environmental advances, contributed to a general sales increase.

Nissan says it is the only manufacturer including, as standard, a three-way catalyst converter system on its LPG models, bringing emissions near zero.

Nissan's manufacturing capacity was increased in late 1999 with the addition of a new factory in Pamplona, Spain. It ramped up to full capacity in 2001.

In Japan, a new forklift manufacturing plant in Takada began production in June. The 1.5-tonne to seven-tonne forklifts manufactured at the plant will mainly service Nissan's Asian markets and Australian customers.