Yale lift trucks boast a host of new features

Yale Materials Handling Corp.'s booth at MODEX 2012 was packed with new trucks of all types, some with significant redesigns and new features. Here are just a few of the highlights from a tour of the company's innovations with Yale Distribution President William Pfleger.

The ERP-030-040VT/VF line of pneumatic-tire electric rider trucks includes both three- and four-wheel versions. Both use the same frame, and thanks to dual AC-drive motors and a zero- turn-radius steer axle, both versions achieve a very tight turning radius. The front dash has been completely redesigned to be simpler and lower, and the electronic instruments have been mounted on the overhead guard all for better forward and peripheral visibility. Hydraulic controls also have been redesigned for easy, one-hand operation for many activities.

The OSO-30 order selector has moved to an all AC platform. The operator's compartment slides up or down, so operators can adjust their position to the most comfortable and ergonomically beneficial height. A specially designed pallet clamp can handle several types of pallets, even block pallets that many operators find difficult to enter and exit.

The MPE060-080VG heavy-duty end rider for rugged environments has been considerably strengthened, with 25 percent more steel in the forks and a reinforced undercarriage. Additionally carburized steel entry blades and improved linkage geometry reduce wear and tear and extend the life of the vehicle. The butterfly-style/twist grip combination handle provides convenient control at any position. Yale says it tested the new model in extreme cold over 1,000 hours, moving more than 50,000 pallets and 100 million pounds of freight. Afterward, the equipment required no lubrication or service.