Cargotec Receives Award for Hiab Moffett Truck-Mounted Forklifts

Cargotec has been presented with a John Connell Technology Award by the Noise Abatement Society for the new Hiab Moffett E-Generation electric truck-mounted forklifts. The award acknowledges the company’s success in reducing operating noise on the machines to levels that allow them to be used in built-up areas outside regular working hours.

Now in their 11th year, the John Connell awards recognize organizations judged to have been outstanding in their efforts to both reduce the impact of noise nuisance and pioneer practical and innovative solutions to noise pollution.

Cargotec received the Highly Commended Trophy for its Hiab Moffett E2 and E4 truck-mounted forklifts that have been verified by UKAS-accredited test laboratory AV Technology as being capable of operating below 60dB. The machines that are powered by high performance lithium-ion batteries and use the latest AC motor technology are awaiting PIEK certification, a standard for quiet delivery vehicles and equipment developed by the Dutch government in 2004 and subsequently adopted in other parts of the world including the U.K.

To achieve the standard, the machine is acoustically measured and must function emitting under 60dB at 7.5 meter from the sound source. The E4 has already been trialled by a company in the U.K. that delivers car parts to distribution centers, where its almost-silent running capability has enabled that company to resume nighttime deliveries.

“In developing the E-Generation we looked at every aspect of their operation to find ways of eliminating or reducing noise,” explains Keith Quigley, vice president, vice president Hiab Moffett truck-mounted forklifts, Cargotec. “Customers are asking for machines that can work in urban and semi-industrial areas late at night or early in the morning, when noise levels are a sensitive issue.”

“The E-Generation machines are suitable for use by businesses in sectors where forklifts were previously unsuitable because of high noise and emissions levels, such as retailers whose premises are in or near residential areas,” he adds. “The elimination of exhaust gas emissions means they can be used to take goods from outside to inside, reducing the likelihood of handling damage.”

Cargotec has certified the E2 and E4 as Pro Future(TM) models, which means they have met or exceeded strict criteria regarding energy efficiency, power source, emissions, noise pollution and recyclability set out by the company.