Ten key factors that are essential for safe and productive handling
While the skill of the forklift driver can make a clear contribution to the handling process, it is equally true that a well-designed truck – built with the driver in mind – can make a tremendous difference in terms of efficiency and security.
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Toyota Material Handling Europe (TMHE) has identified ten key factors that form the foundation for truck driveability; factors that are clearly recognised in the company’s latest electric 80-volt counterbalanced truck – the Traigo 80.
 
1.  Visibility
The Toyota Traigo 80 has been built around a concept of total visibility. This starts by ensuring that the driving position gives clear view of the forks at ground level, to allow accurate driving and load handling. When driving, the operator has a completely clear view in all directions, as a result of careful design of cabin, overhead guard and lift mast.
 
2.  Responsive Control
Powerful high-performance AC motors give exact driving characteristics, which can be tailored to suit the operator – allowing, for example, auto-braking when the accelerator is released. All hydraulic functions are also smooth and reactive, with fingertip control, and precise load positioning.
 
3.  Intuitive Control
The standard pedal layout on all Toyota trucks reflects that found in cars, the most natural layout for most truck drivers, with the accelerator on the right and the brake pedal to the left. TMHE also offers a choice of a ‘double pedal’ layout, with two drive pedals, for forward and reverse drive either placed side-by-side, or alternatively either side of a central brake pedal.
 
4.  Comfort and Ergonomic Design
Safety and efficiency are seriously compromised by driver fatigue. To combat this risk, the Traigo 80 has easy entry to the cab with a wide, non-slip step for safety and a low step height. The cab itself is spacious, with fully adjustable seat position, armrest and steering column.
 
5.  Information
The truck’s information display shows vital information, including travel direction and steering wheel direction (for manoeuvring in tight places), selected power mode (maximum performance or maximum energy efficiency) and travel speed, as well as battery charge levels.
 
6.  Safety
The Toyota System of Active Stability (SAS) has a stability sensor that reacts when the truck is turning and, if necessary, locks the rear axle to enhance truck stability. The SAS mast control system measures the weight of load and lift height, and limits the amount of forward tilt – and speed of tilt – to avoid the risk of forward tipping and losing a load. With the Fork Levelling Control, the forks are levelled at the push of a button, making picking pallets quicker and safer with less risk for damage to goods and equipment.
The cab design also features a restraint system and lateral support for the driver. Sensors ensure that the truck’s functions are inhibited if the driver is not seated correctly. The Traigo 80 range is also programmable to ensure that the performance of the truck is adapted to the experience of the driver and/or the working conditions.
 
7.  Manoeuvrability
Forklift trucks are often required to work in tight spaces, so manoeuvrability is essential if productivity and safety are to be maintained. The Toyota Traigo 80 range is extremely compact, allowing a narrow warehouse aisle width. This allows for exceptional manoeuvrability without compromising stability, thanks to the strong chassis design.
 
8.  Braking
With the ‘accel-off’ function, the truck will brake smoothly by simply releasing the accelerator, while also regenerating energy to the battery. For a full stop, the wet disc brake system, virtually maintenance-free, ensures efficient braking performance.
 
9.  Organised Workplace
To manage tasks efficiently, including administration, the Traigo 80 provides several conveniently placed storage compartments to ensure the driver is not only in control of truck and load – but also of the overall handling process.
 
10.  Adapted to the Application
Counterbalanced trucks are designed to work both indoors and outdoors, and this can sometimes mean working in tough weather conditions. Traigo 80 models offer a choice of cab designs, which include options for full weather protection. An optional swivel seat, with a horn button on the reversing handle grip, also assists the driver.
 
There is no doubting the impact that the driver can have on productivity and safety in any handling operation, which means that driveability is a key consideration when selecting the right truck for the job. And there is also no doubt that the Traigo 80 range has been designed for maximum driveability.