Doosan is offering IMHX visitors a glimpse into the warehouse of the future with debuts to its two electric forklift truck ranges and an electric pallet truck.
The durable counterbalance B15R-7 three-wheel and B45X-7 four-wheel series amount to seven new vehicles, while the 1,500kg capacity BPSC15E-7 pallet truck will be launched in the UK in 2020.
Covering a handling capacity of 1.25-1.6 metric tons, the three models of the B15R-7 range with their tough rear-drive axles, IP65-rated Curtis controller and IP20 PAL brushless AC motors are designed for the wettest and dustiest of conditions. Featured as standard is a sealed, oil-cooled disc brake system that Doosan is confident will last up to five times longer than conventional shoe brakes.
The powerful four new B45X mid-range models can handle between 4 and 5 metric tons, suitable for businesses across a spectrum of industry – including manufacturing, wholesale distribution, food & drink, transportation and warehousing. Designed for long shifts outdoors, the four-wheel trucks have a tighter turning circle than the outgoing models and are expected to be a viable alternative to IC engine equivalents that are increasingly regulated. 
With a tight turning circle, smooth and responsive acceleration, and a conveniently placed direction switch on the hydraulic control lever for switching direction of travel quickly and easily, the all-round performance of the B15R-7 Series promises a boost to productivity inside or outside the warehouse. Additionally, when equipped with the optional side ‘roll-in & roll-out’ battery facility, batteries can be easily changed for multiple shift operations.
Prominent safety features include anti-roll back for preventing accidental movement of the vehicle when stopped on a slope, automatic speed control for safer cornering and an operator sensing system that immobilizes the truck and locks all hydraulic functions when the operator exits the cab.
Also making its debut at IMHX in September will be Doosan’s new versatile, 1,500kg capacity electric pallet truck – the BPSC15E-7 to be launched in the UK in 2020. The BPSC15E-7 has a built-in charger, long-life batteries and a compact chassis for extra maneuvrability. 
Brian Grady, sales and marketing director at Doosan Industrial Vehicle UK, said, “Environmental legislation continues to get tighter and businesses will need to consider very carefully how they invest in their forklift truck fleets going forward. Electric vehicles are certainly gaining ground in applications that were once considered only suitable for IC engine trucks – and there are tough electric trucks available now that can efficiently lift very heavy loads.”
