Both big and clever
August 1st 2007

Hyster has added two heavyweight versions to its Fortens series plus a raised operator version for some of the smaller and middle-weight units

When Hyster first launched the Fortens range of IC counterbalance trucks in late 2005, it followed years of massive investment in research and development.

The aim was to create a truck that was dependable and productive presenting both added and bottom line value to fleet operators. Now it has added two heavyweight versions to the range, using Bauma 2007 in Munich as the launchpad for the H6.0-7.0FT trucks.

The new series provides additional heavy duty capability for customers with extremely demanding applications, typically in the paper, manufacturing, bottling or construction industries. The truck is available as either a 6.0 of 7.0t machine, in Fortens or Fortens Advance configurations.

The Fortens version features a 2-speed electronic powershift transmission, (2- forward/2-reverse) and the Fortens Advance features the new 3-speed DuraMatch transmission (3-forward/2- reverse), which the company claims is the first 3-speed transmission available trucks of this capacity.

DuraMatch is a patented Hyster transmission design that improves performance while reducing operating costs. Its objectives are to lessen wear and damage, reduce downtime and expensive repairs and minimise operator fatigue. Key features include the adjustable Auto- Deceleration System (ADS) and controlled power reversal, which allows even the most aggressive direction changes to be smooth, reducing tyre and brake wear and adding to greater driver comfort.

For performance optimisation, an onboard computer system, the Pacesetter VSM (Vehicle Systems Manager), was devised and developed by Hyster to significantly increase overall reliability, enhancing diagnostic capabilities for maximum uptime. The VSM, accessed via the dash display, also enables truck performance to be customised to suit individual application needs.

Advanced diagnostics produce reduced maintenance requirements and fewer unscheduled repairs. Periodic maintenance is also easier thanks to the easy service access to both sides of the engine compartment and a simplified layout of wiring and hydraulics offers easier and faster access to components.

For the driver, Hyster says its ergonomically designed cabs are renowned for producing a dramatic effect on operator productivity. The new Fortens H6.0-7.0FT series is built not only for driver comfort, but to reduce fatigue and improve the truck's overall operating efficiency. It also features a fully-isolated easy access operator compartment, with full suspension seat, new e-hydraulic controls (choice of joystick or levers), adjustable arm rest and steering column, small diameter steering wheel and a compact multifunction dash display.

View from the top Hyster has also introduced a Raised Operator version of both the H2.0-3.5FT & H4.0-5.5FT Fortens Series through its special engineering department.

The new Raised Operator option is designed for use in applications where the load carried can often hinder the driver's view, and is therefore suitable for applications in the beverage or paper handling industries.

With ergonomics key to delivering maximum productivity in an application, the new Raised Operator trucks deliver a number of driver comfort features, in addition to those standard on the Fortens range: To enhance visibility over the attachment and associated load, the raised operator truck features an elevated seating position, 500mm higher than the standard Fortens truck. Allowing the driver to see tall loads, it also provides an unobstructed all-round view of the working environment, extremely useful in space restricted, fast moving applications, such as bottling plants. The truck also features industryleading cabin access, with two additional evenly-spaced wide steps and two additional grab handles on the left side of the truck.

The full cowl-to-counterweight service access of the standard Fortens is maintained on the Raised Operator version, side opening doors providing full access to the engine, transmission, wiring and hydraulics.

Available with all standard price list options, the truck can be configured to best suit the customer application needs.

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