European production of the world?s first 4.0 to 5.0 tonne capacity hybrid forklifts will commence in 2011, according to sources at Mitsubishi Forklift Trucks.
p>European production of the world?s first 4.0 to 5.0 tonne capacity hybrid forklifts will commence in 2011, according to sources at Mitsubishi Forklift Trucks.
Already available in Japan, the world?s first lithium-ion-battery/diesel-engine forklift truck was developed by parent company Mitsubishi Heavy Industries (MHI).
In a move reaffirming the manufacturer?s commitment to producing environmentally friendly, innovative and highly efficient trucks, the company will focus specifically on meeting European customer needs when introducing these hybrids to the European market.
The new additions will expand the already comprehensive range of Mitsubishi counterbalance and warehouse truck models.
Forklift truck applications typically involve many short acceleration and deceleration cycles, with a high energy demand, which is why the use of hybrid technology in forklifts can be so beneficial.
In this case Mitsubishi has achieved an astonishing 39 per cent increase in fuel efficiency over traditional IC engine trucks of similar capacity.
With a first-of-its-kind forklift powertrain design, comprising a high-capacity lithium-ion battery, a compact, low-emission diesel engine, two induction motors and an inverter, Mitsubishi has cut engine displacement by one-third and significantly reduced CO2 emissions.
Despite their small engine size, these high-specification hybrid models have been designed to deliver powerful performance ? along with the famous Mitsubishi reliability.
For more information on Mitsubishi Forklift Trucks and its range of counterbalance and warehouse equipment visit
www.mitforklift.com and www.qfab.com.ga.