Since Combilift launched its first C4000 model in 1998, multidirectional capability has been one of the major hallmarks of the company’s wide range of handling solutions. Twenty Four years and thousands of R&D hours later, its latest product takes multidirectional capability to the next level with the Combi-MR4 4-wheel electric reach-truck. This incorporates Combilift’s new Dynamic 360° ™ steering, which provides rotation on each wheel, enabling seamless directional change of the truck while on the move. This allows this extremely agile forklift to work in forward, sideward and crab steer mode, guaranteeing swift operation and excellent manoeuvrability.
The impetus for the development of this latest product was to develop a multidirectional truck with a very low platform to maximise storage density within racking. The Combi-MR4 is available in two models, with capacity ranges of 2,500Kg – 3,000kg and 3,500Kg – 4,500kg respectively, and can operate in aisles as narrow as 2265mm when guided (based on 1200mm deep material). To maximise storage space the configuration of two drive wheels at the rear and two sets of smaller dual front wheels provides a platform height of just 380mm, allowing otherwise redundant lower areas towards the floor to be used.
In keeping with Combilift’s common overall design ethos, the highly versatile Combi-MR4 can handle long loads as well as palletised goods with ease, and can load and offload from delivery trucks. Driver comfort and safety are also major considerations, and this new truck definitely delivers the goods from an ergonomic point of view: a high visibility operator cabin, multi-function control joystick, AC-electric power steering and joystick operated hydraulic mast functions all make for a smooth ride and straightforward operation. The articulated rear axle with two rear rubber drive wheels provides optimum traction for outdoor use, while still ensuring nimble and accurate truck placement.
To achieve this level of manoeuvrability, Combilift utilised its newly developed-in-house Dynamic 360°™ steering. This novel concept enables operators to manipulate the truck’s positioning and orientation without needing to stop and change driving mode. This is achieved by simply twisting the control joystick right or left to adjust the wheel positions simultaneously – allowing crab steering and direction change on-the-go.
Combilift puts any new product through its paces before it is officially launched to ensure in that it is 100% fit for purpose. Following the initial operation of 3,000kg Combi-MR4 units, a 4,500kg model was developed after receiving a request from Combilift’s dealer in the BeNeLux region – Mabo BeNeLux, for a larger capacity unit for their customer TABS (Timber and Building Supplies Holland). One of the Netherlands’ leading suppliers of timber products and building materials, with 104 outlets across the country, TABS has partnered with Combilift and operated its multidirectional trucks for more than 15 years. It now has MR4 trucks at several locations in the Netherlands and is about to take delivery of its 15th and 16th trucks, which will work at its distribution centres in Zaandam and Bleiswijk.
Combilift CEO Martin McVicar: “TABS are delighted with the ongoing successful implementation of their Combi-MR4s and the improved levels of efficiency they offer. I have no doubt that this new additional electric model will grow Combilift’s customer base.”
