Hyundai will add more distribution lift trucks in 2016

The forklift division of Hyundai Construction Equipment Americas is taking a cue from its corporate cousins in the automotive, construction equipment, and shipbuilding industries, adopting technologies from those sectors while continuing to emphasize quality, reliability, and safety, according to Tim Webb, product support manager. One example is the rearview safety camera the company has adopted from the automotive side. Another is a touchscreen in-dash computer with a 5.6-inch LCD screen that will be incorporated into all of the company's internal combustion (IC) engine trucks, beginning with diesel models. The single screen has few buttons yet provides quick access to an array of data presented in colorful easy-to-read graphics. Standard indicators include a clock, warning lights, battery-discharge monitor, and speed and direction indicators. Safety-focused options include both a load-angle and a load-weight indicator.

The company plans to introduce a cellular communication option to its "Hy-Mate" asset tracking system, which includes GPS and geofencing capabilities; the cellular version is currently available in Asia and is expected to be available for gas, LP, and diesel models later this year, said Webb.

Hyundai will also bring more lift trucks specifically designed for warehousing and distribution to the market, according to Webb. Look for new Class 1 and Class 2 models with load capacities of 3,000 to 6,000 pounds in 2016.