Bendi adds multidirectional forklifts

The strategic move, designed to grow sales volume for both companies and reinforce the UK distribution for Hubtex, follows on from the success of the Australian operation where both trucks have been sold together in a pilot scheme for both companies for over three years now.

The UK team is made up of 12 highly experienced Sales people supported by the Bendi manufacturing and parts operation in the West Midlands and out in the field through 50+ service technicians. Further support can be called upon from the Hubtex factory in Fulda, Germany.

Under the brand name of Translift HUBTEX, the partnership agreement between Bendi and Hubtex will offer the industry an exciting and viable alternative in specialist handling equipment markets.

Bendi MD Simon Brown explains: "We see this as an exciting partnership for both companies to broaden the range of equipment available to the customer base here in the UK and an opportunity for customers to have access to a product that has a fantastic reputation for being technically superior with unquestioned build quality, reliability and now affordability through Bendi.

"With the high level of specification you would expect from a German manufacturer, but with a cost aimed at the UK market, the Translift HUBTEX range offers true multidirectional capabilities. The innovative DQ electric trucks are able to drive diagonally (or crab), which makes the truck easier to manoeuvre and offers faster loading cycles so now customers do not have to settle for four-ways when they can have five."

DQ 45 Electric Multidirectional Forklift Launched at CeMAT
Following the highly successful introduction of the 2700kg and 3000kg models in 2013, Hubtex launched the 4500kg model in front of an international audience at the CeMAT materials handling exhibition in Hannover, Germany.

The truck, which is around 25% more energy efficient than comparable trucks, is perfectly suited to indoor and outdoor applications. A highlight of the new model is the High Performance Steering System (HPS). Unlike other competitor models, the DQ 45 E has real multidirectional steering, which means it includes diagonal drive or ‘crabbing’ which enables the operator to move five ways rather than the conventional four ways. The benefits are greater manoeuvrability and speed of operation.

The High Performance Steering System or HPS also has a further positive effect on the trucks manoeuvrability thanks to the greater degree of steering angles, which in turn allow for tighter turning circles. Fewer steering movements when loading lorries means faster loading and increased efficiency.

The new electric drive also provides additional safety at high driving speeds: as an optional extra, the trucks are available with all-wheel drive for steep slopes or uneven ground.

Proven Hubtex quality can be seen in the lift masts with internally protected hydraulics. They are manufactured in-house in Fulda, Germany and have a plenty of of load capacity in reserve, therefore guaranteeing higher safety margins and increased performance. To ensure that the trucks are perfectly suited to meet the customer’s operational needs, the Translift HUBTEX range offers different masts and carriages.

Like all of the other models in the Translift HUBTEX range, the DQ 45 E offers a design that guarantees the driver maximum all-round visibility for increased safety and operational efficiency and is perfectly suited to the timber, DIY, steel and uPVC industries.