Jungheinrich's ride-on pallet truck 'Concept Truck' will make its North American debut at ProMat 2009

RICHMOND, VA – Jungheinrich Lift Truck Corporation will present a technology study in the form of a life-size mock-up of a ride-on pedestrian pallet truck at its ProMAT booth #2019 in Chicago on January 12-15, 2009. This Concept Truck looks different than a traditional end-rider pallet truck, it puts forward a more “floating” type of ride for the operator, and more energy efficiency than today’s vehicles. In fact, the energy efficient characteristics it theorizes would likely exceed even that of the 3-phase AC technology already in use in Jungheinrich trucks by some 15% and could potentially lead to considerably higher throughput in customer applications.

The energy storage system presented in this study is based on the use of lithium ion batteries. This efficient battery technology is expected to be a viable alternative to vehicle power sources based on hydrogen fuel cells, and could lead to a significant cost savings for the user, as well as being good for the environment.

When compared to conventional lead batteries, lithium ion batteries are significantly more efficient, last twice as long, and are maintenance-free. And with approximately one-third of the volume and a quarter of the weight of traditional batteries, the truck itself can be more compact and lighter in weight.
Additionally, a complete recharge of a lithium battery would take only about an hour, and in many cases there would be no need for a battery change. To top off a battery, the operator could drive into a docking station, where electrical contact for charging would be made through the fork tips. The entire charging process would be fully automated. The operator could potentially recharge the truck during a lunch break.

Working in conjunction with its lithium ion batteries, the Concept Truck’s direct drive design could permit considerably longer travel distances and shorter charging times than possible with current designs. Direct drive means gears are unnecessary, resulting in even more efficiency, not to mention a considerable noise reduction.

The advanced ergonomics in the Concept Truck would permit both forward and backward travel directions to be controlled with thumb movements, ensuring fatigue-free handling. In addition, a cushioned, noiseless chassis would afford the operator the novel sensation of “floating” with the truck -- rather than riding on it.

Come see what the future may hold …take at look at Jungheinrich’s Concept Truck at ProMAT, Booth 2019.

For more information please contact:

Jungheinrich Lift Truck Corp.
5601 Eastport Boulevard
Richmond, VA 23231
phone 804-737-7400
fax 804-737-9050
email:info@jungheinrich-us.com

website:www.jungheinrich-us.com

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