Toyota Material Handling Australia has launched a comprehensive new range of counter-balance internal-combustion forklifts from 3.5 to 8 tonne payload. The launch of the new 8-Series models means Toyota's industry-leading forklift safety and ergonomic features are offered with all its internal-combustion forklifts, from 1 through to 8 tonne capacity.
Improvements have also been made in fuel and work efficiency, reduced emissions, durability and reliability, operability and operator comfort, and visibility from the operator's seat. The new 8-Series range now includes 3500kg to 8000kg pneumatic-tyre models with the choice of LPG, dual-fuel or diesel, as well as a compact cushion-tyre range of LPG-fuel models with 3500kg to 7000kg capacities.
Highlights of the range include a new 65kW electronic fuel injection-equipped 3.7-litre LPG engine offering fuel savings of up to 20 per cent compared with the superseded model.
TMHA national sales and Toyota product manager Jim Lobow said the new forklift models suit a range of indoor and outdoor applications, including the paper, timber and concrete industries, as well as large distribution centres.
"Key safety features on the new, larger 8-Series models begin with Toyota's exclusive System of Active Stability," he said.
"It helps reduce the likelihood of lateral or longitudinal roll overs, and works in conjunction with Toyota's Active Mast Controller Function - which automatically matches lift height and load weight to help prevent dropped loads or tip-overs. In addition, the new 8-Series range has a vehicle travel-speed control system as standard equipment."
Mr Lobow said Toyota has developed three new fuel-saving features - a load-sensing power-steering system to reduce power demand on the engine, an Economy or Eco mode to optimise the performance curve of the engine to work conditions, and a programmable Auto Engine Off feature on the LPG Dual Fuel engine models.
"Toyota has also reinforced its core strengths of quality, durability and reliability, further improving up-time," he said.
"It has redesigned the chassis and introduced fully stamped steel plate construction, while significantly reducing the use of cosmetic plastic. Critical controllers and relays are protected in a steel box and water-resistant connectors are used throughout."
"The rear combination lamps are long-life/low power use LED type, and mounted high on the overhead guard for protection. Reliability has been optimised with a 55 per cent increase in engine radiator size and by adopting an external hydraulic cooler."
Ergonomic improvements in the new 8-Series models include increased floor space, a larger step, a curvilinear overhead guard post shape and a smaller-diameter steering wheel. The steering system now has an active synchroniser, so the angle of the steering wheel always corresponds to the angle of the steered rear wheels.
The new impressive Toyota 8-Series 3.5-8.0 tonne forklift range