Designed for first- and second-level picking, they share all the productivity-enhancing and fatigue-reducing features of the existing range – along with its market-leading energy efficiency.

Ergonomic aids

Both new models have long forks (2.375 m) which cut the number of picking trips needed. They can carry two Europallets or three roll cages at once. There is also a longer fork option (2.850 m) which will take four roll cages.

The scissor-lifting mechanism raises loads to a height of 855 mm to reduce stretching and straining for the operator. Along with the NO20N2X model, there is the NO20N2XP with a rising platform. This lifts operators to 855 mm and enables comfortable picking at heights up to 2.5 m.

For quick on-off and walk-through access, which is essential in picking operations, all models have wide entrances, a non-slip mat and no tripping hazards. The whole floor mat acts as a presence detector. Using the ‘flying start’ function, an operator can begin accelerating before stepping on board and then access full acceleration.

When seeking a clearer view of the fork tips, or moving the truck over very short distances, walk-beside operation is possible via the steering wheel. Side-mounted controls are available as an option.

The innovative steering wheel, which can be operated effortlessly with either hand, is vibration-damped and adjustable for angle and height. It houses ergonomically shaped accelerator triggers and other controls, which can all be reached easily without releasing grip. Hands can be placed on top of the wheel while reversing, for precise control without uncomfortable twisting.

Smart control

Building on the Cat Responsive Drive System (RDS) pioneered in recent Cat electric counterbalance trucks, the truck’s smart technology makes driving safe, relaxed and enjoyable. Adapting rapidly to every change in the driver’s turning behaviour and travel speed, its advanced steering functionality controls and maintains smoothness in all movements. During turns, intelligent curve control ensures fluent motion, traction and balance from start to finish by constantly adjusting steering sensitivity, cornering speed and angle limitation.

Advances in traction control enable smooth, rapid acceleration, without wheelspin and wear, when operating on slippery surfaces or with heavy loads. Optimised regenerative braking eliminates swaying when the truck stops. It combines with hill hold and anti-lock brakes to help drivers operate smoothly, confidently and safely, even where conditions are difficult. Stopping distances and deceleration rates are easy to programme, control and predict for accurate positioning.

Continuous comfort

The driver enjoys a large and unobstructed workspace, whose triple-suspension floor maximises comfort and lowers fatigue. Its floating structure dampens shocks and vibrations, while sideways dampening relaxes knees and ankles, and microvibrations are reduced by state-of the-art matting.

An angled footrest is fitted to minimise leg strain for taller drivers, or for those using the optional seat. A backrest, optimally shaped for minimum obstruction of operators and goods passing through the truck, adds further luxury and provides a secure leaning position during turns. On top of all these standard specifications, a variety of options, including Li-ion batteries, can be selected for even greater convenience and order picking performance.

Further information on Cat® forklifts, warehouse equipment and related services can be found at www.catlifttruck.com. See them in action via www.catlifttruck.com/videos and follow the news on Facebook and Twitter.