Just when you thought it might have been a quiet year in lift trucks, the reality turns out to be quite different. In fact, 14 suppliers introduced new models or series of trucks in the past 12 months.

A quick tour of the next few pages shows that these introductions range from pallet trucks to counterbalanced as well as sideloaders and reach trucks. Many feature improved ergonomics for operators. Others are more maneuverable. Elsewhere serviceability and versatility are featured.

But if there were ever a time when there is a focus on emissions, this is it. Just a year ago, it became apparent that California was very interested in electrification of all lift trucks sold in the state. While that position has moderated somewhat, the state now appears to be on a track to reduce lift truck fleet emissions 80% by 2010. That would allow a mix of electrics, internal combustion retrofits and super clean engines. And with many of the new models here, lift truck suppliers are clearly looking not just at California but beyond.

Model: 6HBW23

Supplier: Toyota, 800-226-0009

What's new: The 4,500-pound capacity electric pallet truck features a compact design for improved efficiency in confined spaces. It is especially suited to handling loads in over-the-road trailers. A reduced head length and tapered fork tips are part of the truck's compact design. Because maneuverability is high and the control handle can be placed in a near vertical position, its "pinwheel" capability allows for right-angle stacking inside trailers and other confined areas.

The 24-volt electrical system includes a SepEx (separately excited) drive motor and transistor control system for excellent acceleration.

Model: DFG/TFG series

Supplier: Jungheinrich, 804-737-6084

What's new: A family of diesel and LPG counterbalanced trucks are for indoor and outdoor use. Load capacity runs from 4,000 pounds to more than 10,000 pounds.

A hydrodynamic transmission is especially beneficial when moving loads long distances. Start is gentle and performance efficiency optimal at medium to high speeds.

A panorama mast gives the operator an excellent view of the forks and loads on them. Control lights and displays can be clearly seen under all conditions. With a fully adjustable steering column, the steering wheel is always ergonomically positioned. High vibration absorption and a spring-cushioned operator compartment are ergonomically designed.

Model: C6000 GT

Supplier: Combilift, 281-507-0066

What's new: A 6,000-pound capacity sideloader for handling long loads with an LP gas engine is designed for use in steel service centers and outdoors in storage yards and loading areas. It is also available with a 10,000-pound capacity. Lift heights of both are to 30 feet.

Features include hydrostatic drive and brakes for precise speed control in confined spaces and high torque for semi-rough terrain. Maintenance is reduced with the absence of shoes/disc pads. Cushion tires ensure stability in rough yards. Full glass panels protect the operator from the elements yet provide full visibility of loads being handled.

The engine can be fitted with three-way catalytic convertor and exhaust gas sensor for reduced emissions and improved fuel economy.

Model: Platinum series

Supplier: Nissan, 815-568-0061

What's new: A family of engine-powered counterbalanced lift trucks has been fully redesigned. Advances include increased efficiency and performance along with greatly reduced exhaust emissions that exceed the new requirements established by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) for 2004 and beyond.

An electronic concentrated control system (ECCS) optimizes engine operation with high combustion efficiency that reduces fuel consumption and harmful emissions. The vehicle control module monitors a variety of sensors and displays the information on a meter panel for the operator. A computer area network (CAN) provides communication among all key components. The truck is available in cushion and pneumatic tires in capacities ranging from 3,000 to 8,000 pounds.

Model: 7400

Supplier: Raymond Corp., 800-235-7200

What's new: This bi-directional reach truck's ACR System combines AC power with advanced ergonomics that reduce costs and improve efficiency. AC power provides quicker acceleration, smoother direction changes, quiet and precise traction and lift, and more run time per battery charge. Maintenance costs are also reduced with AC.

Ergonomic design features include a universal stance for the operator for true, bi-directional travel. A secondary control handle enhances convenience and comfort during tractor-first travel. Controls are easily accessible.

Ease of use is enhanced by an open-view mast design, giving an unobstructed view of base legs, load and rack.

Model: PE 4000 series

Supplier: Crown, 419-629-2311

What's new: A series of pallet trucks is built for a wide range of applications from dock work and transporting loads to staging loads and orderpicking. They are built 30 to 45% heavier than other pallet trucks, says the supplier, for the most rugged conditions. Load capacity is 6,000 to 8,000 pounds.

A new operator platform increases operator comfort and productivity. Edges are rounded and contoured doors allow for maximum operator foot room on the platform. Integrated kneepads with flexible ribs provide a comfortable leaning position.

The end control features an infinitely variable handle for proper positioning and maximum operator productivity. The Quickpick control handle allows the operator to quickly advance to the next pick location. A dual-switch system helps to avoid unintentional truck movement. '

Model: ERP-DH

Supplier: Yale, 800-233-9253

What's new: This is the first in a line of AC-powered cushion electric rider trucks for warehouses and manufacturing. Lifting capacities range from 4,000 to 6,000 pounds.

The energy-efficient AC traction motor delivers high power and seamless acceleration as well as seamless directional change. It features 80-volt AC power drive control, and on-demand power steering with a brushless motor. An automatic deceleration system automatically slows the truck when the accelerator pedal is released.

Ergonomics for operators have also been improved. A "drop battery box" design provides easy entry and exit. The steering column is adjustable. An expanded dash display offers a service password to set-up and perform diagnostics and displays status codes.

Model: BX20 series

Supplier: Komatsu, 800-821-9365

What's new: Here it's all about the engines for this series of cushion- and pneumatic-tire lift trucks. Using "Clean Air Technology," these gas, LPG and diesel engines keep emissions not only well below EPA requirements but increase power output by as much as 15%.

An electronic concentrated control system features an optimized electronic fuel injection system for gas and LPG driven engines. Mean-while, an engine control module monitors engine functions, determining the air/fuel ratio, torque and speed needed. High combustion efficiency lowers fuel consumption as well as emission levels. An electronic governor speed control is integrated with engine heat sensors.

Model: 39X

Supplier: Linde, 866-433-2270

What's new: The hydrostatic drive 39X truck with 5,000-pound capacity features improved fuel economy due to enhanced engine design.

Hydrostatic direct wheel motors eliminate planetary reduction gears at both drive wheels. This results in less energy loss and more productive work. Combined with an overhead cam engine and reduction in overall weight, the lift truck has high fuel efficiency.

In addition, less of the available engine power is used even though top governed engine speeds have been increased.

Precision control of all mast functions is by adjustable armrest joysticks. Low step height eases operator on/off access.

Model: Presto PLP

Supplier: Atlet, 847-352-7373

What's new: This updated pallet truck has a unique tiller steer-arm that includes a computer with PIN access for security and accountability. It also accesses pre-programmed driving characteristics for that driver.

A 24-volt AC powered motor ex-tends work cycles between charges. The motor is under the control of an onboard computer that communicates by CanBus. Battery life is extended by regenerative braking capability and forks that rise independent of the battery.

The TRAC system is used for the first time on a pallet truck, providing troubleshooting capability. By connecting the truck's on-board computer to a mobile phone, the data can be analyzed and adjustments made from a remote computer.

Model: E45-65Z series

Supplier: Hyster, 800-HYSTER-1

What's new: Higher productivity, easier serviceability and greater adaptability are the hallmarks of this line of sit-down, counterbalanced electric, cushion-tire lift trucks. Capacities range from 4,500 to 6,500 pounds.

AC power technology delivers quicker and smoother changes in travel direction, excellent acceleration and precise speed control. Productivity is further enhanced with an extended shift feature that allows enhanced run time without recharging over longer periods.

Truck serviceability is enhanced with AC motors and controls with brushless traction and steer motors. A thermal management system protects the truck's components with automatic adjustments.

Model: NR3000 series

Supplier: Cat Lift Trucks, 713-365-1000

What's new: Capacities range from 2,500 to 4,500 pounds for this series of reach trucks available in single- and deep-reach as well as straddle configurations. Maximum lift height for all is 425 inches.

The trucks are fully powered by AC. Travel and lift speeds are high. Meanwhile, brushless AC motors and elimination of hydraulic and traction system contactors allow service levels to be extended.

Performance profiling capabilities allow users to customize drive and hydraulic settings based on the application, operator experience level and personal preferences. These settings include travel speed, acceleration rate, regenerative braking response and steering sensitivity.

Other features include a spacious operator compartment and a rugged mast and carriage.

Model: BN 25

Supplier: Landoll, 785-562-5381

What's new: Combining the attributes of a narrow-aisle truck with those of a dock truck, this model works in both scenarios. The 180-degree articulating front end allows the vehicle to work in aisles as narrow as 6½ feet with its three-stage, high-visibility mast. A standard front loader mast design eliminates the need for reach mechanisms and turret attachments.

Steering is with the front wheels while driving is with both rear wheels. This electric truck uses a 48-volt battery that is accessed easily.

The operator compartment is ergonomically designed featuring a hand lever directional control. The steering wheel tilts and telescopes while the seat is adjustable.

Model: BC18S

Supplier: Daewoo, 800-323-9662

What's new: This family of electric-powered cushion counterbalanced trucks has capacities of 3,000, 3,500 and 4,000 pounds for a range of warehousing applications.

A transistorized drive and hydraulic controller continuously monitor truck performance with run-time diagnostics. The controller is adjustable to travel speed, acceleration, lift, tilt and plugging, customizing the truck to specific applications. Oil-cooled disc brakes are standard equipment. The truck is covered by a 5 year, 10,000-hour warranty.

Efficiency and comfort are central to the design of the operator's compartment. Deck mounted hydraulic levers are positioned at the operator's side. The accelerator and brake pedals offer good footroom. And a storage tray helps to keep the operator organized and efficient.