Low emissions
June 1st 2008

Nissan has put the emphasis on safety, productivity and the environment with the launch of a new series of ultra low emission lift trucks.

New engines designed and built by Nissan exclusively for its own lift trucks are at the heart of the new DX Eco models, so-called because of their low environmental impact.

Emissions from the diesel versions are almost imperceptible, while a new threeway catalytic converter reduces up to 99% of harmful emissions from LP gas models.

Computerised engine management systems also guarantee that only the minimum quantity of fuel is consumed.

The new DX Eco engine range is available in six models from 1.5 to 3.2t lift capacity in both diesel and LP gas. Lift heights are to 7m. Nissan has applied its Risk Reduction System to the series to ensure maximum operator safety. Features include its 'full time' cushioned stability system to provide exceptional lateral stability for the truck and load, and it cannot be turned off or over-ridden.

Other safety features within the Risk Reduction System include a mast lock system to prevent accidental operation. It isolates the mast and fork controls immediately the operator leaves the seat.

An automatic 'return to neutral' feature also returns the truck's transmission to neutral within three seconds of the operator leaving the seat with the truck in gear.

Nissan offers a three-way catalyst system Tri-Cat Ultra as standard with the LP Gas versions of all its engine trucks. A 'closed loop' electronics system is integrated to provide a complete engine management function, controlling the fuel-to-air ratio, resulting in optimum fuel consumption and lowest emission levels.

Operator comfort has been a principal consideration with the new series. The platform is mounted on a four-point shock absorption system to minimise road and engine vibration. To further minimise vibration to the operator, pedals have been mounted to the floor of the truck and not directly to the transmission.

Auto-tilt fork levelling is available to ensure pin-point accuracy. A clear-vision, factory installed cab is also available. Wide, tinted glass doors and a curved, panoramic windscreen reduce glare and give all-round visibility. A wide open step with non-slip surface and grab handle allow easy access to the operator's workplace in all weathers.

The floor is covered with an anti-skid mat.

A new suspension seat has hip supports and integral belt. It is multi-adjustable for weight and length.

Instruments are housed in a single, automotive-type panel mounted to one side of the dashboard for quick, easy identification. Steering is power assisted, with a small diameter steering wheel for less effort from lock-to-lock. The wheel also includes a memory function.

For safety, when the ignition key is turned, a large warning light on the dashboard confirms that the truck is in neutral. If the DX Eco has been left in gear, the engine will not start. A non-ratchet, toggle-type parking brake demonstrates positively that it is either on or off. All control levers are located on the right hand side, so the operator can keep his left hand on the wheel spinner knob. A single fingertip joystick controls lift and tilt functions simultaneously, with the option of traditional long mechanical levers. A guard has been placed over the fingertip controls of the DX Eco to prevent the levers from being operated accidentally when mounting and dismounting from the 'wrong' side of a lift truck.

Travel speeds for working on long stretches are up to 19.5km per hour, while lift speeds to 7m are as much as 700mm per second. The series has a particularly low centre of gravity for greater stability with heavy loads or for working on rough terrain. Wide or double-tyred versions are available, together with a factory fitted sideshift.

The DX Eco includes the three-stage 'Optiview' mast option. Two full free lift cylinders are moved to the side, leaving nothing in the centre to block the operator's visibility. Tough metal guards at the front of the series shield tilt rams, while rubber boots on the rams prevent the ingress of dirt and cold into the cab. The DX Eco's steering axle is cast steel for maximum strength, and its aluminium radiator has wide fin spacing to give the best heat dissipation. This provides a truck able to operate under high temperature conditions with an even longer life.

For service and maintenance, access is simplified to ensure maximum uptime.

Removing just a single panel at a time reveals the most-needed components. For complete access to the engine compartment, a unique mechanism first lifts the hood and then rotates it backwards. For additional safety, the hood is also fitted with a micro-switch which cuts the engine as soon as it is opened.

With its all new ultra low emission engines and management systems, and the application of its risk reduction system, Nissan has set new operational standards with the DX Eco – from operator safety and comfort through to maximum productivity and minimum environmental impact.

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