Impact Handling, the leading premium material handling specialist and sole UK distributor of Cat® Lift Trucks, announces details of a game-changing new range of electric forklifts, that deliver the lowest total cost of ownership yet seen within their class.

Designed and built in Europe, the all-new Cat 4.0 to 5.5 tonne electric counterbalance forklifts offer a remarkable set of capabilities that achieve new benchmarks in electric lift truck performance, while at the same time being more energy-efficient – and quieter by far – than any of their peers.

Each of the six lift truck models in the EP40-55(C)N(H) range is designed to maximise every possible electric advantage, challenging their counterpart diesel trucks in terms of power and efficiency, while emitting zero pollution during operation.

The forklifts are also well protected against the elements, with major components such as the traction motors and controllers achieving IP54 and IP65 ratings respectively.

Peter Woodhouse, Business Development Manager at Impact Handling comments: "The new range really does present the most powerful case yet for moving from diesel to electric power lift trucks. For many applications, its elevated performance and ability to operate seamlessly both in and outdoors, even in harsh environments and heavy weather conditions, will be hard to ignore."


Forklift Power Options

Lithium-ion powered forklifts are available throughout the range, which adopts clever battery management technology, simplified opportunity charging, and quick-connect access points. Lead-acid optioned machines benefit from automatic ventilation, and a convenient battery inspection hatch for fast checking and water top-ups. Additionally, an easy access battery compartment enables quick on-truck servicing and sideways exchange.

A fast and agile forklift

The trucks' exceptional agility gives drivers the feeling of driving a much smaller machine, with dynamic aids, including OmniTurn all-wheel steering, providing better grip, smoother turns and unbeatable manoeuvrability. A 100°+ rear turning axle, allowing instant side turns without the need for initial backward movement.

Cat Responsive Drive System (RDS) adapts performance characteristics rapidly in reaction to driver behaviour and ensures all movements, stops and starts are smooth. Intelligent curve control maximises cornering safety by smoothly adjusting truck speed and minimising side forces. A PowerBurst feature adds extra acceleration or climbing torque when needed, while electric differential locking helps in slippery conditions.

Onboard hydraulic technologies, including SmoothFlow, make materials handling even smoother, faster, safer and more precise by optimising mast and fork movements according to load weights and lift heights.

Quiet and comfortable

Driver welfare has been a key consideration throughout the development of the new range, ensuring an ergonomic environment and generous levels of equipment. Built for demanding indoor and outdoor applications, the forklift can be equipped with panel cabin options and additional comforts like air conditioning, directable ventilation and heating – bringing electric benefits to any industry sector or environment.

Onboard low-noise technology, including market-leading SilentRun+ hydraulic pumps and quiet drive units, combines with a spacious, uncluttered, vibration-free, floating operator compartment to keep drivers comfortable and stress-free. Both enclosed and open cabins give exceptionally clear all round views with no need to lean.

The new range is another example of Impact’s ongoing commitment to providing its customers with the widest choice of premium materials handling equipment in the UK, while delivering exceptional value and the lowest possible total cost of ownership.

www.impact-handling.com