NEW 7-SERIES FORKLIFTS FROM TOYOTA MATERIAL HANDLING RAISE SAFETY AND PERFORMANCE STANDARDS
TORRANCE, Calif. (July 27, 1999) - Toyota Industrial Equipment introduces the revolutionary 7-Series forklifts, the first in the world to actively improve safety and productivity through advanced technology. The new Toyota 7-Series lift trucks, following Toyota tradition, also emphasize performance, reliability and operator comfort.
Advanced technology makes the 7-Series the first to help reduce the risk of tip-overs and spilled loads by increasing the stability of the truck. According to data compiled by OSHA, tip-overs are the leading cause of fatalities among forklift operators.
Toyota's engineers have designed the world's first System of Active Stability™ (SAS). The main components of SAS include the Active Control Rear Stabilizer and the Active Mast Function Controller.
Using sensors and a rear axle lock cylinder, the Active Control Rear Stabilizer greatly improves forklift stability during turns. When it senses instability, SAS instantly locks the rear axle to help reduce the risk of tip-over. With the rear stabilizer, lateral stability is significantly increased, enabling operators to turn more quickly and safely.
At the other end of the truck, the Active Mast Function Controller regulates both the forward tilt angle of the mast and the rear tilt angle speed, and keeps them within the range of stable movement. Designed to help operators handle loads at high heights, the Active Mast Control automatically stops the mast depending on the height and weight of the load. Increased longitudinal stability can help prevent damage to loads and forward tip-overs.
Likewise, the Automatic Fork-Leveling control button, when depressed, automatically stops the mast in a vertical position and levels the forks. This function assists with operator training and can significantly improve productivity, even with skilled operators.
Yet another safety feature is the optional Travel Speed Control. It allows maximum travel speeds to be reduced without affecting lifting speeds while the truck is stationary or traveling under the set speed. Training new operators or working in environments requiring extra caution makes this feature especially appealing.
In addition to improving safety, the ground breaking SAS technology increases productivity. Independently conducted productivity tests concluded that the Toyota 7-Series with SAS is the most productive truck among competitive forklift models. Test results found that the 7-Series with SAS was up to 8.85% more productive than other brands tested. This translates to a labor cost savings of up to $2.21 per hour. (For test results, see below.)
The 7-Series includes cushion tire internal combustion lift trucks in 4,000- to 6,500-pound capacities, and pneumatic tire internal combustion lift trucks in 3,000- to 6,500-pound capacities.
Toyota's four-cylinder, 136-cubic-inch, 4Y gasoline-powered engine, or the 152-cubic-inch, overhead valve 1DZ-II diesel engine powers the 7-Series trucks. These engines are known for their industry-leading performance, durability and reliability. Additional new features like engine hood insulation and a unitized frame reduce noise levels and provide more comfort for the operator and the workplace.
A LPG fuel system is optional. Changing LPG tanks with the swing-out tank bracket is easy and convenient. In addition, a world's first swing-down tank bracket is introduced as a 7-Series option. The swing-down tank bracket provides the ultimate ergonomic advantage by helping to reduce back strain when changing LPG tanks.
As with all Toyota products, operator comfort and ergonomics are key factors in design and development. The 7-Series features a non-slip floor mat, wide, open footsteps and assist grips on each side of the forklift, plus a hand pad on the engine hood for easy operator entry and exit. Large foot space, leg room and headroom make for a comfortable operator compartment.
Convenient placement of the display panel and control levers allows for comfortable "eyes-forward" operation, while the headlight and turn signal switch is like that of a car, making for familiar, easy operation. An ergonomically shaped parking brake is located on the left side and a convenient pencil holder is located on the right side. The instrument panel is easy to see and displays easy to understand icons.
A four-way adjustable semi-suspension seat with lumbar support is standard, adding to operator comfort. A new optional seat is also available featuring full-suspension, three position adjustments and built-in handles for easy entry into the operator compartment.
The 7-Series also offers improved operability with the new easy to operate Electric Shift Control. The operator effortlessly shifts the lever to select forward, neutral or reverse. Also, hydrostatic power steering with a two-spoke steering wheel provides greater maneuverability and a stationary turn ratio of 100 percent, all with less operator effort.
Another new feature is the optional E-Z Pedal, which allows the operator to move the truck in forward or reverse with a foot control switch on the accelerator pedal, also allowing ease when changing direction.
"Because of its advanced SAS technology, the 7-Series can make a huge impact on safety in the material handling industry. And, increased productivity as a result of SAS in action is a measurable benefit," says John Koenig, Toyota Industrial Equipment's vice president product development, marketing and training. "The 7-Series raises the bar on what to expect from a lift truck. It's truly a revolutionary product."
PRODUCTIVITY TEST RESULTS
SUMMARY
MANUFACTURER MODEL PRODUCTIVITY VS. OTHER MODELS SAVINGS PER HOUR VS. OTHER MODELS* Toyota 7FGCU25 (W/SAS) - - Clark CGC-25 5.75% $1.44 Nissan CPJ02A25PV 7.23% $1.81 Hyster S50XM 7.70% $1.93 Yale GLC050RG 8.28% $2.07 Mitsubishi FGC25K 8.85% $2.21 *Based on operator cost @ $25/hour. Summary extracted from independently conducted USAC Test #99-CPC-20.
