New from Komatsu
October 1st 2005

Designed to offer reliability and consistent high performance, Komatsu’s new AX50/BX50 series of IC engined forklifts has been specifically developed with the European market in mind

Representing the most significant product launch from Komatsu for over ten years, sole importer KMH UK has announced the introduction of the new AX50 and BX50 ranges of forklift trucks.

Developed in Japan to replace the current 1.5 to 3.0t diesel and LPG powered forklift ranges, the launch sees the introduction of a new 3.5t truck. This enables the company to offer a 3.5t capacity unit in both its BX and CX ranges – product lines that allow Komatsu to fulfil two very different types of application. The new range utilises the latest technology and manufacturing techniques and will be produced at the company’s two production plants in Tochigi, Japan and Bari, Italy.

Models available

The AX50 series is available in four models, two with diesel engines (FD15T-20R, FD18T-20R) and two with LPG engines (FG15HT-20R, FG18HT-20R) offering lift capacities between 1.5 and 1.75t, depending on the model.

The larger BX50 series is available in eight models with capacities of 2.0, 2.5, 3.0 and 3.5t, with the latter being a new super-compact variant that has been designed specifically to meet the European market. The full line-up includes four trucks with diesel engines (FD20-16R, FD25T-16R, FD30T-16R, FD35AT-16R) and four with LPG power (FG20HT-16R, FG25HT-16R, FG30T- 16R and FG35AT-16R).

Enhancing reliability, a new floating aluminium transmission with expanded cooling is said to allow constant high performance from the truck, even during intensive use. Each of the new models features an engine that has been specially developed to give an optimum balance of power and environmental performance. All engines comply with the strict governmental regulation (EPA Tier2/EU Stage II) concerning gas emissions.

Claimed to be a first in the forklift truck industry, one of the most notable innovations across the range is the introduction of a state-of-the-art system (conforming to Directive ISO:3691) which blocks all hydraulic functions and truck operations when the operator is not onboard for more than three seconds.

Another notable feature on the new models is the ‘dual floating’ system.

Claimed to be unique, this helps to reduce vibration with a combination of cab and transmission mounted sock absorbers.

These help to alleviate operator fatigue and stress, resulting in increased productivity.

The new design also contributes to making driving more comfortable, thanks to a cabin which is mounted higher than on previous models, facilitating easy access to the driver’s seat. The seat is also wider than its predecessor and cushioned by gas filled shock-absorbers, as well as being 235mm from the steering wheel.

Increased productivity

"Every characteristic of the new AX50/BX50 trucks has been designed to increase our customers’ productivity," said Steve Watkiss, responsible for KMHUK. "For example, the lack of vibration provided by the dual floating system and exceptional visibility make for comfortable working conditions, which is a fundamental aspect in terms of hourly performance.

"The new models have been manufactured with the same quality, reliability and longevity for which Komatsu has built its reputation in the market, but the difference with this latest range is that it has been designed with the European market specifically in mind.

"Examples from across both the AX50 and BX50 ranges are already playing a leading role within our demonstrator fleet, which all of our distributors have access to.

UK customers have already taken delivery of the new models and the response has been excellent without exception."

The BX50 series is characterised by its SLHS hydraulic system with tandem pump that allows load lifting twice as fast at low engine speeds. According to the company, this results in significant added value in terms of productivity.

Other important features of the new series include a safety warning alarm that sounds if the handbrake is not applied when the driver leave the truck, ease of access to components, a new design of electrical cabling system, and the waterproof protection of fuses which is said to allow the BX50 truck to give optimum performance even in the coldest climates.

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