The forklift truck was invented over a hundred years ago and is still one of the most important transportation aids in logistics today. One hundred years of evolution have sure left their mark and resulted in the Jungheinrich EFG 425-435, an electric counterbalance truck that has little in common with its ancestors. Moreover, with the EFG series 4, this truck category has reached yet another performance peak – especially in terms of user-centred design. At the heart of the design process was the goal of optimising the forklift driver’s workplace so that they can carry out their demanding work as comfortably, concentrated and safely as possible. The comprehensively designed user experience begins with details such as a low step that enables the driver to climb safely into the truck. Once inside the cab, the enlarged footwell and narrow steering column provide a greater sense of space. The combination of the narrow B-pillar design, the frameless, generous front and rear windows and the panoramic roof, together with the compact lift mast profile, ensure optimum all-round visibility. In terms of ergonomics, the EFG series 4 impresses with its intuitive operating concept and the high degree of customisability of the driver’s seat. This includes, for example, the infinitely variable single-point adjustment of the armrest and steering column, customisable lever and axle assignment of the controls as well as single or double pedal operation. Thanks to the decoupling of the cab from the chassis, vibrations in the cab have also been significantly reduced. A convenient charging concept allows the driver to easily recharge the lithium-ion battery as required. “The ergonomic quality of the truck is excellent – from the operating concept to the design of the driver’s seat and the visibility from the cab,” the jury praised. “Every detail makes it clear that it was developed with the user in mind, leading to outstanding quality of use.” They also emphasised the consistent design quality of the interior and exterior of the product and the well-thought-out lighting solutions. The EFG series 4 thus proves that even a hundred years after the invention of the forklift truck, it is still possible to significantly improve driver comfort and handling performance.
