Cover Story/news

Loadlift welcomes next-generation Nissan 1F4 Series

November will see the arrival of the first shipment of the new Nissan 1F4 Series 3.5–5 tonne petrol/LPG and diesel forklifts. These new machines take all the features of the popular FO4 forklifts and advance into new levels of performance and durability that reflect Nissan’s 50 years of automotive engineering experience. Most importantly, this new series delivers significantly reduced emission levels across the range.

Trevor Walmsley, CE of Loadlift, says: “We are very excited by the changes and developments of the new 1F4 Series. We know that reduced emissions are being taken very seriously by many New Zealand companies. Loadlift can now deliver even more globally- oriented materials handling options.ion authority’s regulations.

The tough decision
Key to the development of the 1F4 Series has been the desire to continue to reduce total vehicle lifecycle costs whilst providing machines that do the job better for the operator, the owner and the globe.

‘Toughness’ is the core design concept for this series, and Nissan Japan has applied all its vehicular technology to develop features which enhance sturdiness of design, reliable performance and higher productivity.

This is best demonstrated in features such as a big new fi nal drive for reliable operation in a range of conditions, larger brake size for improved braking conditions, and a standard hydraulic booster for greater braking forces with less effort.

Because these machines have been designed to work in rough outside environments where dust and debris can be a hazard, they also incorporate features such as a cyclone air cleaner, doubling the dust-holding capacity for greater engine protection. Increased shielding throughout has been facilitated by the introduction of improved seals, dust covers and other improvements to protect the steering link ball joints, waterproof connectors and enclosures. Such factors are all geared towards reducing lifecycle costs and frequency of maintenance.

The top tier
One of the most exciting aspects of these machines for Loadlift, however, is their significant reduction in emission levels. All 1F4 models meet the most stringent global standards. The TD42 diesel meets US EPA and Euro Stage 3A, and petrol/gas meets US EPA Tier 2.

“It’s not often you get the advantage of helping the environment, while also gaining increased productivity and performance,” comments Mr Walmsley. Nissan has been able to do this through both its petrol/LPG and diesel models. The new TB45 ECCS petrol LPG engine has lowered emissions per kilowatt hour to just 0.6 grams of hydrocarbon, 0.6 grams of NOx and 20 grams of carbon monoxide.

Figures for the TD42 diesel engine are just as impressive – 0.7 grams of hydrocarbon, 4 grams of NOx, 5 grams of carbon monoxide and 0.25 grams of particulate matter. Yet both engines deliver high productivity, with – in the case of the petrol engine – Nissan’s fuel-injected ECCS (Electronic Concentrated Control System) and three-way catalytic converter as standard equipment, and with the diesel engine a new quick-glow system which provides improved starting in cold weather.

Comfort, safety and operability
“All our clients rate their operators’ comfort and safety as a major factor in their decision-making process, and I feel Nissan has pulled out all the stops with this new 1F4 Series”, adds Mr Walmsley. “A number of safetyconscious functions help create a stress-free working environment, minimise fatigue, and aid operator concentration.” The inclusion of an automobilestyle fl oating powertrain and rigid frame and chassis has reduced the transmission of vibrations to the operator for hours of more comfortable operation. Safety measures also include a warning buzzer if the operator leaves the seat without setting the parking brake, and a mast lock system which also automatically locks all lifting and tilting functions if the operator leaves the seat.

As with all new models, the true value of the 1F4 will become apparent over time. However, the basic objectives of toughness, high productivity and comfort and safety have been neatly wrapped up in a parcel that befi ts the company’s stature and experience in this year of Nissan’s 50th birthday.