Playing it straight
June 1st 2006

With 'Syncro' technology applied as standard on all models, the latest three-wheel electric series from Nissan focuses on safety and productivity and is designed to bridge the gap between the company's warehouse equipment and four-wheel counterbalanced trucks

Safety and productivity are at the forefront of a new series of electric lift trucks from Nissan, spearheaded by a specially designed Syncro feature to provide "instant" straight-line travel. The Syncro feature automatically returns the truck's steering wheel spinner knob to the optimum driving position for forward and reversing operations.

With three-wheel design for enhanced warehouse manoeuvrability, all models in the new TX Syncro range also feature a double rear wheel as standard for additional stability - especially important for smaller trucks when travelling unladen.

The AC-powered model is the first all-new electric lift truck from Nissan since the launch of its range of warehouse products in 2005 - a 30-strong series of reach trucks, pallet transporters, stackers and order pickers. It is designed to bridge the gap between Nissan's warehouse equipment and its standard four-wheel counterbalanced trucks, with a range extending to five versions and in six capacities from 1.25 to 2.0t. Compact, Standard and High Performance options add to the handling versatility of the new series.

Syncro technology

Applied as standard to all models in the TX Series, 'Syncro' technology is, says Nissan, a significant new feature for improved straight-line operability.

Having driven into a stack or racking at an angle, operators need to ensure the drive wheels are in the correct position for immediate straight line travel before reversing out. Forward and reverse travel to straighten the steer wheels is time consuming, with the risk of de-stabilising the load or damaging stored products.

With angle sensors and powered steering, the Nissan Syncro system always returns the steering knob to the same preselected position for straight line travel.

Risk Reduction System

Offering class-leading lift and acceleration speeds, the 48V range features Nissan's Risk Reduction System assuring safety for both the operator and the surrounding workforce. This is designed to create a cabin space that provides the best all-round visibility and which incorporates dedicated controls to ensure optimum secure operation.

These include a mast lock system which prevents the forks from being lowered or the mast from being tilted when the operator has left the seat. The system also automatically restricts travel speeds and acceleration when the truck is turning, and reduces lift speeds at high rates of truck travel.

If the accelerator is released when the truck is on a gradient, an anti roll-back device ensures that the truck can reverse only slowly.

Optimum manoeuvrability

The wedge-shaped design of the TX Syncro's chassis ensures optimum manoeuvrability.

Overall width is from just 1070mm.

Nissan has also introduced an innovative AC TECH controller to provide performance and economy. The controller continuously monitors and communicates the unit's status to the operator via the instrument panel.

Five function keys can also be used to adjust the truck's performance according to the operator's experience, the requirements of the load or the handling conditions.

Operator comfort

Obtaining optimum productivity from a lift truck, say Nissan, is dependant on a design that provides the greatest operator comfort and least fatigue, and the latest technology for low energy consumption.

The TX Syncro has a wide step and ample legroom, while the multi-adjustable suspension seat and adjustable steering wheel allow operators to select their ideal driving position.

In keeping with Nissan's automotive style of operator control, standard hydraulic levers are located immediately next to the seat and the pedal lay out is a familiar 'passenger car type' to avoid confusion.

Increased uptime

For increased uptime, three regenerative braking systems put power back into the battery during operation, a load sensing steering system uses only the minimum power required for the operation, and Auto Power Off shuts the truck down when left on stand-by. All work through the Nissan AC TECH controller to increase the available working hours from each battery charge.

With compact, standard and high performance models throughout the range, the new Nissan TX Syncro is available in cushion and super-elastic tyre versions from 1.25 to 2.0 tonne lift capacity, with lift heights to seven metres and a range of wide view, high visibility masts. Nissan Forklift.

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