Electric Lift Trucks offer 3,000-4,000 lb capacities.
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Press Release Summary:
Series 7 3-wheel lift trucks utilize AC power system featuring MOSFET transistor control technology and brushless motors with contactor-free controllers. Hydraulic motor also controls steering function. Power-keep function compensates for battery depletion and corresponding loss of performance. Active Mast Control detects and responds to changes in operating status of lift truck, improving stability when handling loads of varying size and weight at high lift heights.
Original Press Release:
Toyota's New 7-Series 3-Wheel Electric Lift Truck Sets New Standards in Productivity and Efficiency
IRVINE, Calif. (April 15, 2003) - Toyota Material Handling, U.S.A., Inc. (TMHU) today unveiled its innovative new line of 7-Series 3-wheel electric lift trucks, available in 3,000 to 4,000 pound capacities and well-suited for virtually every indoor material handling application. Through Toyota's innovative technology, this new family of lift trucks raises the industry standards of productivity, efficiency and safety.
"We understand what 'real value' means to our customers. It is a combination of performance, efficiency, productivity and safety, and this break-through line of lift trucks delivers measurable results in every category," said Dr. Shankar Basu, CEO and president of TMHU. "The new 7-Series 3-wheel electric lift trucks are an excellent example of Toyota's commitment to quality and innovation."
Toyota's Exclusive AC Power System
Toyota was the first major lift truck supplier to bring AC technology to the U.S. market with its revolutionary 7-Series 4-wheel electric lift trucks, powered with its acclaimed AC drive system. Now, advancements from Toyota bring the next generation of AC technology - the exclusive AC power system, engineered and built by Toyota, and bringing customers new levels of both power and energy efficiency.
Using sophisticated AC MOSFET transistor control technology, the AC power system extends beyond the original AC drive system to include all lift truck functions. This expanded use of AC technology replaces DC motors, which are larger, less energy efficient and contain more wearable parts.
It is comprised of a series of AC-powered subsystems, each of which either conserves or regenerates power to maximize performance and productivity between battery charges. The motor features a "power keep" function which is designed to compensate for battery depletion and corresponding loss of performance, yielding longer run times and more consistent power throughout the length of each battery charge cycle. In addition, energy is continually recovered through three forms of regenerative braking, extending run times significantly and prolonging brake life.
"Toyota's new technology puts performance that rivals traditional internal combustion engines in the hands of customers who need the energy efficiency and environmental advantages of an electric lift truck," said Brett Wood, national product planning and marketing services manager.
Productivity
The truck's drive motors regenerate at 10 times the rate of a DC motor, giving customers more energy recovery in less time. Toyota's new 7-Series gained up to 45% more power compared to its predecessor, resulting in greater throughput and increased pallet movement. This significant increase in performance, combined with a reduction in down time for maintenance, means tremendous improvements in productivity for customers.
Reduced Maintenance
Toyota's revolutionary AC power system uses brushless motors with contactor-free controllers that are virtually maintenance-free, lowering operating costs and lift truck down time. Customers can expect at least $2,000 annual savings in maintenance costs, per truck, due to brushless AC motors, compared to motors with brushes and contactors. Compared to similar products, Toyota estimates that annual costs may be reduced by a remarkable $4,000 per year, per truck, in energy efficiency and operator labor costs.
Also, in addition to controlling the hydraulic function, the AC hydraulic motor controls the steering function, eliminating a separate power steering motor and further reducing maintenance needs.
Active Mast Control
Toyota's patented Active Mast Control (AMC) is a system of sensors for enhanced longitudinal stability and unique fork-leveling function that provides safer, easier load handling while reducing product damage.
Toyota designed the AMC system to detect and respond to changes in the operating status of the lift truck, to improve stability when handling loads of varying size and weight at high lift heights. In addition, the system incorporates the following safety technologies and functions:
o Automatic fork-leveling, to level forks parallel to the ground, improving operating efficiency and productivity while reducing product damage
o Forward tilt angle control, to decrease the chance of load spillage or lift truck tipping
o Rear tilt speed control, to help maintain stability with heavy loads and high lift heights
o Key-lowering interlock with drift control system, to help prevent unintentional fork-lowering while in the "OFF" position
Ergonomics
Toyota is able to increase operator comfort by improving ergonomics and expanding foot space, because the company offers more power with the use of smaller, more efficient motors.
These exceptionally durable trucks have standard dual smooth cushion steer tires for a smoother ride, longer tire life and wider footprint for improved lateral stability. Pneumatic tires are available as an option. In addition to the impressive standard features, a number of options are available to increase operator comfort and convenience:
o Mini-lever fingertip controls help enhance operator productivity
o Battery roll-out features rollers for easy battery replacement
o EZ pedal allows change of travel direction without taking a hand off the steering wheel or hydraulic control levers
o Synchronized steering, allowing operators to gauge the position of the rear steering tires from the position of the steering wheel spokes
TMHU was established in 1967 and is headquartered in Irvine, Calif. The company offers a full line of high-quality lift trucks sold under the Toyota Industrial Equipment brand. Built on a reputation for excellence, Toyota is the number one selling full line of lift trucks in the United States for units sold in 2002, and is known for its quality, reliability and durability. Most of the Toyota lift trucks sold in the United States are assembled by Toyota Industrial Equipment Manufacturing, Inc. in Columbus, Ind.
Toyota's commitment to customer service extends nationwide. Seventy-nine authorized Toyota Material Handling, U.S.A., Inc. dealers with a total of 183 dealership locations throughout the United States offer comprehensive customer service support, including one-stop shopping for lift trucks, parts, service and financing. For more information on TMHU, please visit www.toyotaforklift.com.
