Incredi-fuel hybrid
December 1st 2006

Offering the most economical option in its class, Still's new RX 70 fourwheel unit is the only forklift available with hybrid technology

With the robust new RX 70, Still uses hybrid technology to help create what is said to be the most economical truck in its class. Although the RX 70 is the only unit available with this type of technology, it is not a new concept – indeed, it was Still's founder, Hans Still, who developed the first diesel-electric drive 50 years ago.

The drive system on the RX 70 consists of an internal combustion engine driving a generator, an intelligent control unit and an electric motor. The power is transmitted by magnetic force, which requires no contactors and is, therefore, friction- and wear-free. This results in reduced fuel and servicing costs.

Available in 2.2, 2.5. 3.0 and 3.5t capacities, powered by diesel or LPG, the RX 70 has been designed for work in arduous applications, coping with cold, wet, dirty and corrosive conditions. Overall versatility is also enhanced by the range's ergonomic and compact construction.

Oil flow on demand In addition to the hybrid drive concept, the economy of the RX 70 is further enhanced by the hydraulic drive, which uses a variable displacement pump. This provides high performance by supplying hydraulic oil (and, therefore, power) to the lifting and steering systems on demand. In contrast with conventional systems, this delivers only the amount of hydraulic oil needed, with no waste of power.

The advanced drive management system features an optimising control to govern engine power output to its optimum, most economical level. This also has a positive effect on engine noise levels.

Compared to its predecessors, the RX 70 offers improved maintenance requirements – intervals have been extended from 500 to 1000 operating hours, and because the oil is subject to lower stresses, hydraulic system maintenance has been extended from 3000 to 6000 hours. In addition to reducing maintenance costs, these improvements also reduce the impact of truck downtime.

Tough testing As you would expect, the RX 70 has undergone an intensive testing programme to ensure its performance under the toughest conditions. Encapsulated motors, enlarged radiators, a sealed and maintenance-free lamella-type brake running oil, and an hydraulically driven fan contributes to the robust design, making the range suitable for operation in demanding applications such as foundries, paper recycling, salt mines and construction.

Like its predecessors, the RX 70 also features water-tight plug connections, piped wire harnesses and control units mounted on dampened supports.

With the driver as a priority, Still has designed the RX 70 to give excellent all round visibility to the operator. The low front windscreen and logical layout of the instruments and controls allow an unobstructed view of the forks, the load and the road ahead. Slim roof supports and large windows fitted with safety glass offer a clear view of the load and top racking levels. Rear view has also been improved by the counterweight, which is as flat as possible.

The spacious driver's compartment features a roomy footwell and is supported on elastic mounts for additional comfort.

The dampened seat can be adjusted for each individual driver.

The steering column is placed off-centre to the left, because drivers steer with the left hand most of the time. The small steering wheel and level pedal position have been ergonomically designed to allow a comfortable position of the arm and feet to keep the force needed to operate the controls to a minimum.

Like all new models from Still, the RX 70 is of modular design, so the widest spectrum of customer requirements can be accommodated from one basic model. As well as the various engines and load capacities, different masts, closed mast heights, cabins and electric systems are available to suit the individual application.

Overall, Still says that the RX 70 sets new standards for economic operation and, therefore, for Total Cost of Ownership (TCO). Still provides customers with a calculation of TCO for the lifetime of the truck. With fuel consumption of just 2.5 litres per hour (tested with a 2.5t model according to VDI 2198 new i.e. 60 work cycles per hour) the RX 70 offers the most economical choice in its class.

More articles from Still Materials Handling Ltd: