The message 'Mitsubishi gives you more' heralds the launch by Mitsubishi Forklift Trucks of a comprehensive electric counterbalance truck range – headed up by its new three and four wheel 48 volt AC models.
"With a wealth of practical, user-friendly features, the new trucks tick every box in the buyer's checklist," says Terry Foreman, General Manager of Mitsubishi Forklift Trucks UK. "That includes higher power and performance, unbeatable productivity, greater inbuilt safety, enhanced reliability, improved economy and wider choice… all delivered in a complete package that represents outstanding value for money."
The outward appearance – colour scheme, bodywork and curved overhead guard – of the FBNT three wheel and FBN four wheel series has been deliberately designed to show a family connection with the very popular Mitsubishi N series of IC engine counterbalance trucks… and to reflect the proven technology they share.
But in terms of 'intelligence' these electrics are in a class of their own, thanks to a new generation control system – manufactured in house by Mitsubishi to ensure optimum compatibility. Among other functions, the controller governs an advanced safety feature – the Integrated Presence System (IPS). IPS detects whether the driver is correctly seated and, if not, prevents all hydraulic movement. Uniquely, IPS stops lowering as well as lifting, tilting and truck travel. It also provides a parking brake alarm and seat belt warning light as vital safety aids.
Another of the controller's key roles is in adjusting acceleration, travel speed, lift/lower speed and braking to suit the load, application and driver – for great versatility. Instant programming – including pre-set modes –can be carried out on board the trucks without special tools.
Developed from award-winning designs, the FBNT and the FBN each offer capacities of 1.6, 1.8 and 2.0 tonnes. Among the key advances on the trucks' already successful formula has been the switch from DC to AC power. Both drive and hydraulic motors are AC powered, providing high performance and – at the same time – exceptionally smooth, quiet, controlled, energy-efficient operation.
With efficient steering, high stability and small dimensions, the trucks are highly manoeuvrable and safe, both indoors and outside. The three wheel models can actually turn within their own dimensions.
Within the operator compartment, everything has been ergonomically designed to keep the driver comfortable and in perfect control throughout the longest of shifts. For a start, there's an adjustable steering column and a full-suspension, fully adjustable seat with hip restraints and belt. All of the controls are carefully designed and positioned – including the standard hydraulic levers and the optional fingertip control module. Through-the-floor pedals are fitted, in preference to hanging pedals, to minimise leg strain. Close attention to detail has resulted in the most comfortable pedal heights and angles… and a reduced brake pedal stroke.
Easy entry to all areas of the truck for checks and maintenance is ensured by rapid access features. The extended service interval – 500 hours – and the lower maintenance requirements of the AC motors, brakes, CAN-bus electrical system and other components help to reduce downtime and bills even further.
"Importantly," adds Terry Foreman, "because of our exceptional UK-wide coverage, customers can obtain these world-beating products right on their doorstep, from a friendly yet highly experienced supplier. Only Mitsubishi can offer forklift users the massive resources of a huge global corporation and – at the same time – the local support of a dealer who will respond quickly to their day-to-day needs."
There are many scenarios in which an unseated driver – or someone else – might touch the hydraulic controls of a forklift truck. The results of such an action could be disastrous. The Mitsubishi Integrated Presence System (IPS) provides an automatic lock-out that prevents all movement of the truck and its hydraulics if the driver is not correctly seated. Uniquely, IPS not only prevents travel, tilting and lifting but also lowering. With IPS, the tragedy about to unfold in this illustration would be avoided.
For more information on the FBNT and FBN series, or any other in the award-winning Mitsubishi Forklift Trucks range, contact info@mitsubishi-forklift.co.uk or visit www.mitsubishi-forklift.co.uk. Address for Mitsubishi Forklift Trucks UK: Wyvols Court, Swallowfield, Reading, Berkshire, RG7 1WY. Tel: 0118 988 0221,
fax 0118 988 0347