Hyster has launched a new tough rider pallet truck that allows the operator to adapt driving positions while cross docking.

The new Hyster® RP2.0-2.5N series has been designed and built for intense use and is ideally suited to demanding warehouse applications, such as loading and unloading trailers and transporting pallets between pick up and drop off points, and for cross docking operations.  It can be used in a range of high intensity industry sectors such as warehousing, distribution, and food and drink where reliability and durability are vital for medium to long distance pallet movements.

“The Hyster RP2.0-2.5N Rider Pallet Truck is ideally suited to unloading a lorry at a warehouse dock,” says Ron Farr, Manager Warehouse Solutions for Hyster. “Its tough and durable construction is essential for intensive cross docking operations where trucks are subjected to intensive use, often against the clock.”

Designed in collaboration with the Engineering Concept Centre, the new rider pallet truck is ideal for busy warehouses with limited space. Its design makes it more compact than a ‘flip down’ platform pallet truck with platform and side arms in open position.

“Development of the new Hyster RP2.0-2.5N series has focused on three key areas, which are access for the operator, acceleration with low Whole Body Vibration and a small area footprint,” explains Ron Farr.  “The driver area of the new Hyster RP2.0-2.5N has an innovative design and interface, with focus on the cab’s seat, access, space, and controls.”

Access for the operator is important to keep up with a busy operation where the operator gets on and off the truck regularly. With a larger entrance and floor area, the innovative cab design allows the operator to sit, stand or lean in the cab area comfortably.

The new seat design with a seat / lean system enables the operator to sit during long traction runs or to lean when operating in the back of a trailer. The design combines a swinging seat cushion with a fixed back rest, housed on the side panel. This enables the seat position to be adjusted between horizontal seat and vertical lean or stand at the push of a button. The seated position provides the operator with stability, visibility and security. The sideways stance also helps with reverse travel.  

There is also an optional folding foot rest, which can allow increased floor space if required, speed sensitive steering and simple mapped controls.

The new enhanced Hyster traction motor delivers an increased travel speed of up to 12km/h. Full AC infrastructure on drive and steering motors allows seamless changes in the direction of travel, helping to increase cycle speeds and control of pallet handling operations.

Regenerative braking recovers energy and increases braking effect, contributing to reduced maintenance costs.

To help reduce service and maintenance time, the truck has been designed to offer quick and easy access to components including diagnostic plugs and fuses. The motor cover can be removed with just one bolt and the caster wheel is accessible from inside the truck.