Manitou recently gave North American dealers and members of the trade press a preview of the next -- and so far largest – model in its family of M-Series of vertical-mast rough-terrain forklifts.
The prototype of the M70-2H, which can lift up to 15,400 lbs. and has a maximum lifting height of 14’10”, was one of many machines on display during Manitou Americas’ “Next Big Thing” event in West Bend, Wis., last week.
Although Manitou representatives emphasized that the M70-2H was still a prototype, Jean-Pierre Guerand, Manitou’s vice president of global industrial sales, said that the company hopes to have certification completed and a unit on display at the Bauma tradeshow in Munich, Germany, April 11-17.
The new model uses a 74-hp. Deutz TD3.6 Tier 4 Final diesel engine and a two-wheel-drive hydrostatic transmission.
Guerand pointed out the extra-wide cab for operator comfort, the machine’s excellent visibility, and its ability to use four forks to handle double pallets.
Manitou says the M70-2H is a true rough-terrain forklift that can work in any conditions. Guerand expects the machine’s top applications to include timber handling, oil and gas work, handling precast concrete, construction, mining, heavy industrial work, and other heavy-lift applications.
Guerand said that he expects the M70-2H will likely be available in North America within a year.
Lift & Access is part of the Catalyst Communications Network publication family.
