Jungheinrich launched its new EFG 4 series with a lifting capacity of 2.5 and 3 tons at the beginning of 2012. Improvements to the software and new electrical control make the truck more efficient and user-friendly than its predecessors. Energy consumption is also considerably lower. The Jungheinrich EFG 425 (2.5 tons) and EFG 430 (3 tons) forklifts are part of the new 4 series. A standard as well as a shortened chassis version is available for both electric truck models (EGF and EGF 425k 430k).
Depending on the customer’s preference, all models can be fitted with “Drive and Lift Plus” for enhanced driving and lifting performance. Jungheinrich has also developed an electric steering system which has already been installed in the lighter EGF series. As with all electric forklifts of the Jungheinrich brand, the software as well as the complete electronics were developed in-house in order to guarantee what the manufacturer calls the ideal balance between performance and energy.

Access to the truck is sufficiently spacious, comfortable and safe. All components are well finished without any sharp edges whatsoever. To ensure safe entry and exit, Jungheinrich has chosen non-slip plastic fittings in a contrasting grey colour, which means that the running board is also clearly visible from the driver’s position when dismounting the truck.
The view of the load and working environment has also been optimised by making improvements to the mast profiles, fork supports and the positioning and running of the chains among other things. All that is missing is dampening at maximum lifting height. Thanks to the electric steering, the steering column is very slim, thus giving the driver more legroom and freedom of movement. The height and angle of inclination of the steering column can be steplessly adjusted by means of a central lever, thus enabling an ergonomic working position The right-hand armrest of the variably adjustable driver’s seat is also completely adjustable.

Like the trucks in the series with capacities of below 2 tons, the 2.5 and 3-tonners are now also equipped for side battery change. The battery can be changed safely, ergonomically and quickly using a lift truck and the newly developed snap-fit adapter. There is no longer any need to open the battery cover. Thanks to this and the completely sealed underside of the chassis, Jungheinrich was able to totally re-design the cabin and make it extremely robust. The cabin is shock-dampened for optimum comfort. The right-hand side of the cabin can now be used as storage space for objects the driver needs for his work. The LCD display is still on the front side of cabin and shows the position of the steering wheel, the driving direction, the battery charge status and the selected driving program. Numerous monitoring features are fitted to assist the driver. If the battery is 80 percent discharged, the lifting option is switched off and the driver has to either change or re-charge the battery. The driver can choose between five work programs that can be customised by Jungheinrich to suit specific requirements. The works settings alone provide a wide range of options, from high-powered drive mode (program 5) to very careful (program 1). The regenerative brake system further enhances energy efficiency.

Summary

The Jungheinrich EFG 425 is extremely productive and highly energy-efficient, and the truck records the best scores in its class in both areas. One major plus is the precision of the truck, which ensures productive and safe operation. Moreover, the electrical control system provides more space for the driver and is extremely easy to use.