Toyota launches electric trucks

Toyota Material Handling has launched a new range of compact electric forklifts with three new models offering capacities of 2.0 tonnes, 2.5 tonnes and 3.0 tonnes.

Designed for all indoor materials handling applications, from food and beverage to general manufacturing, warehousing and distribution centres,
Toyota electric 8FBCU models are said to provide better performance than their predecessors thanks to higher drive and lifting speeds.

"Like all Toyota forklifts, they offer excellent value in the areas of safety, productivity and performance," says Dave Rylance, product manager for counterbalance at Toyota Material Handling UK.

"The main advantage of the 8FBCU is their compact size, allowing use in smaller work spaces than conventional forklifts."

Every 8FBCU counterbalance model features the Toyota System of Active Stability (SAS).

Other standard 8FBCU features that support workplace safety include a low dashboard for excellent visibility of the fork tips, a maximum drive
speed setting to help enforce workplace speed limits, and a wheel indicator that shows the position of the wheels at a glance to support safe driving habits.

For maximum productivity and performance the Toyota 8FBCU range features the exclusive Toyota AC2 power system. Toyota AC2 is built around new Toyota 48-volt motors and controllers developed together for optimal compatibility, resulting in higher drive and lifting speeds.

In addition, the 'accel-off' braking function delivers smooth regenerative braking performance, which in addition feeding power back to the battery.

Toyota 8FBCU's ergonomic design helps reduce driver fatigue and stress resulting in greater productivity. Standard features include a low, wide step and a new large driver entry assist grip for easy access to the truck.

The new slim-line adjustable steering column and small (300mm diameter) steering wheel allow comfortable driving, while a new, easy-to-read digital display offers detailed operational information at a glance.

Optional mini-levers provide fast, accurate, ergonomic load handling, and optional PIN-code start-up helps ensure that Toyota 8FBCU can only be operated by authorised personnel.