The Australian forklift industry will be introduced to the new range of Komatsu AE50/AM50 counterbalance electrics, with Red Australia set to unveil the new three and four-wheel trucks ranging from 1.8 to 2.0 tonne capacity in March.

Komatsu says the new electrics are the answer for customers who are serious about total operating cost, productivity and safety.

The units boast many advanced features when compared with Australia’s top selling brands, the company says.

The new series is powered by an AC system, which unlike engine motors doesn’t use brushes and contactors, preventing unexpected repair costs and reducing total operating cost while maintaining high performance, even at low battery levels.

Airtight wet disc brakes free customers from periodical brake shoe replacements because there is very little disc wear, Komatsu claims. It says the feature is ideal for both wet and dusty applications given that the completely sealed system keeps water and dust out of the brakes.

All round dual drive provides stable traveling performance under any condition including slippery surfaces, deep puddles and slopes. This feature also enhances the turning radius and enables a fast and smooth operation.

To respond to the growing material handling market, in which trucks may be operated 24-7, side battery access provides hassle-free battery replacement. By removing the side panel, the battery can be handled safely with another forklift instead of a crane.