ERGONOMICS, MANOEUVRABILITY AND SAFETY PERFECTED IN INDEPENDENT FORKLIFT TEST

Leading French materials handling publication, Manutech, put Yale’s four wheel VF electric counterbalance forklift through an uncompromising series of tests with some impressive results.

Yale’s new VF electric forklift truck “highlights the undisputed advances that NACCO Materials Handling Group has made in its new generation of electric trucks,” reported Mr. Patrick Harribey and Mr. Jean-Louis Rabeux in the January/February 2010 issue after their examination of the 1,800kg capacity model.

Steve Ridgway, Yale Brand Manager, said: “Yale understands that ergonomics and productivity are inexorably linked and the introduction of the VF series marked an unprecedented step forward in ergonomic design and operating performance for four wheel electric counterbalance trucks, something that was highlighted by the test.”

According to the professional test team the operator module is central to the success of Yale’s VF series. Mr. Harribey commented that “the ergonomic tilt of the armrest built into the seat combines comfort with convenience” whilst “the headroom between the seat and the overhead guard makes for comfortable driving when wearing a hard hat.”

The VF model tested was fitted with Yale’s AccuTouch mini lever module which features cushioned arm and palm rest with fingertip control of levers. The test team reported that “the levers were big enough to be operated with handling gloves on. They are smooth, extremely precise and simultaneously manoeuvrable single handed.”

Particular praise was given to the new Yale full suspension seat and its ability to absorb vibrations A weight adjustment thumbwheel function allows the seat to be easily customised to the operator’s specific requirements resulting in improved comfort, increasing the length of time an operator can work at optimum productivity.

Manutech reported that the turning circle on the VF model was “outstanding” with smooth manoeuvring at all times. The armrest and rear-driving position were also praised for offering good support during manoeuvring.

The test team described “excellent visibility from the ‘Clearview’ mast enabling the operator to pick up or put down pallets high up on shelving in total safety.”

Manutech were keen to comment that the VF model tested allowed the supervisor to select between two performance modes. The 'eLo' (Energy Saving) setting offers the lowest possible energy consumption in each class (2.02Ah per VDI 2198 test cycle) whilst the 'HiP' (High Productivity) setting can be selected for a heavy duty performance cycle or where high productivity is important.
Responding to the Manutech verdict, Steve Ridgway concluded: “We are delighted with the test results. Mr. Rabeux and his team have provided an excellent, independent and experienced endorsement of the new VF series confirming that Yale continues to lead the market with a range of products that have the best overall energy efficiency, productivity and lowest lifetime cost of ownership for applications where electric forklift trucks are demanded.”

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