Harlo Products, Grandville, Mich., unveiled the prototype of its upgraded HP8500, an 8,500-lb. capacity rough-terrain forklift that now meets Tier 4 Interim emissions standards using a mechanically controlled diesel engine and no exhaust after treatment.

Harlo met the Tier 4 Interim standard by using higher-efficiency hydraulics that let the HP8500 deliver the same performance as the earlier version, but with a lower-horsepower engine.

Mike Frey, Harlo national sales and marketing manager, says the hydraulic system now uses a piston pump instead of a gear pump. The increased hydraulic efficiency has let Harlo down-rate the HP8500’s John Deere 4045TF290 diesel engine from 99 hp. to 74 hp.

The engine now also uses mechanical common rail fuel injection instead of the electronic common rail injection used before. The changes in hydraulics and injection technology deliver the same operating performance plus better fuel economy, according to Frey. “The operator gets the same feel and performance, but with 30% fuel savings,” he says.

The HP8500 lifts 8,500 lbs. at a 24-in. load center. Depending on the mast it’s equipped with, the HP8500 can lift 8,500 lbs. to a height of 15 ft.; 6,500 lbs. to 16 ft., or 2,500 lbs. to 22 ft.

The HP8500 exhibited at the American Rental Association’s 2013 The Rental Show was equipped with a 20-ft., 3-stage, “free lift” mast that’s particularly good for working in low-overhead sites. It allows the forks to rise 80 in. before the mast begins to rise.