Smart, Strong, Safe – customised for nearly every application

Clark presents a new generation of internal combustion counterbalance trucks

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Smart, strong and safe are the attributes characterising the S-Series. The completely redeveloped generation of internal combustion counterbalance trucks stands out with its robust design as well as reliable and high-performance operation with low operating and maintenance costs. A new workplace concept is aimed at satisfying the operator needs. With the S-Series, the forklift specialist with American roots relies not only on already proven system components, but also on pioneering active safety systems, a smart information system and a wide range of accessories. The S-Series is designed to fulfil the specific requirements of customers worldwide while also ensuring the highest efficiency. In a nutshell: With the, S-Series Clark is asserting its position in the premium segment of industrial truck manufacturers.

The S-Series consists of the S20-35 LPG and diesel forklifts with super-elastic or pneumatic tyres and the S20C-32C compact LPG forklifts with cushion tyres. These forklifts are available with capacities from 2 to 3.5 t with a load centre of 500 mm. The agile trucks with cushion tyres are particularly well-suited for applications with limited space.

Clark is right on target with the S-Series

Developed in close cooperation in centres of excellence in America, Asia, Australia and Europe, the new forklift generation has been put through its paces in numerous field tests worldwide. In order that Clark could fulfil the requirements of corresponding regions, the truck development took into account feedback from drivers and operators.

Andreas Krause, Technical Director at Clark Europe GmbH commented: "It all began with a white sheet of paper with the goal of using our more than 100 years of experience in forklift construction to develop a vehicle which noticeably improves driver work conditions, while also optimally fulfilling operator requirements. During the test phase, operators and drivers alike confirmed that we have succeeded in this task. They commented: In many areas the truck actually even exceeds requirements for the modern forklift.”

Rolf Eiten, President and CEO of Clark Europe, adds: “Smart, Strong and Safe – these words stand not only for the core characteristics of the S-Series, they are also our pledge for future developments from Clark. With the new series, operators benefit from robust trucks that guarantee reliable and safe operation even under the toughest conditions with a low Total Cost of Ownership (TCO). Drivers can look forward to significantly greater comfort, which will provide fatigue-free work throughout an entire shift. With this we make it possible for operators of forklifts to improve the efficiency of their fleet and significantly lower their material handling costs.”

Smart technology for efficient movement of goods

Robust forklifts are always first choice wherever a high level of handling performance is needed, even during tough multi-shift operations. Rapid and safe delivery in and out of storage areas is helped by the new load weight measurement system which measures the weight of the load on the forks. With a compact design and optimal layout for the centre of gravity, the vehicle has a very small turning radius. This pays off in constricted application areas.

To make it possible to suit the vehicle performance to the respective application, there is an option of restricting the truck speed. The speed can be configured via the new splash-proof, 5-inch TFT colour display that is also used for the truck central information system. If the vehicle is mainly used for short distances inside buildings, the speed can be limited to a minimum 6 km/h. If the forklift has to cover longer distances, for example in outside areas, the maximum driving speed of up to 21 km/h increases efficiency.

The display also gives the driver, information about all important vehicle parameters, such as driving speed, load weight and operation time until the next maintenance interval. Warning information can be shown in 26 different languages. The display can also be used for on-board diagnostics and has password-protected access for servicing. On request and to reduce fuel while increasing safety, the vehicle can be programmed so that the engine automatically shuts off when the driver leaves the forklift seat. Another new feature is a directional switch integrated into the hydraulic lever that allows the driver to change driving directions while remaining in complete control of the truck.

In addition to Standard, Hilo and Triplex uprights, Clark also offers Quad uprights for the S series. This quadruple upright is ideal for customers who need a lifting height of up to 8 m and at the same time need a low overall lowered height upright with a maximum of 2.80 m. This for example is required for the loading and unloading of containers, while simultaneously moving items into and out of high racks. For this type of operation, without a quad upright an additional truck would be required.

Strong – Build to last quality ensures a reliable and high-performance operation

Like all Clark vehicles, the S-Series also fits seamlessly into the proven Clark “Build to last” concept, which stands for a solid and functional construction with high-quality components that ensure reliable operations throughout the forklift service life. This starts with a fully welded robust frame, a vibration-free mounted steering axle, and a stable engine cover mounted seat, to the powerful industrial engines, such as the MMC-PSI (2,4L), the Ford LPG engine (2,5L) with full EPA Tier 4 certification or the diesel version featuring the turbocharged ISUZU diesel (2,2L) engine, which fully complies to all Stage IIIb emission standards.

All engines feature excellent acceleration levels and high torque power while still being efficient. During operation, the temperature of the engine and transmission are monitored permanently and switched off immediately if thermal limit values are exceeded. By isolating the engine, transmission and drive axle, Clark has been able to reduce vibrations and noise to a minimum. With the reduction of whole-body vibrations and the smooth driving mode of the forklift, the driver can work with reduced fatigue and achieve higher productivity.

The trucks come with practically maintenance-free disc brakes which are oil cooled and can even be provided with additional forced-cooling system for heavy-duty applications. With servo assisted brakes means that less power is needed when braking (up to 50 % less effort compared to drum brakes). The S-Series also excels in terms of maintenance and service. The forklifts are renowned for long service intervals and low operating costs. The service technician can easily reach all components that are relevant for maintenance so that down time can be reduced to a minimum.

Safe – from the best of ergonomics and new safety systems

The well-thought-out ergonomic driver environment of the S-Series impresses not just with its modern design and its high-quality finish but also offers superior comfort to the driver. This starts with the entry, the driver can use the wide footstep to conveniently get on and off the vehicle. Clark has reduced the distance from the footstep to the driver seat so that the driver can easily get on the seat in one step by using the large grip handle. The anti-slip rubber mat and a robust textured step increase safety. The comfortable, full-suspension seat has a foldable back rest and seat belt and can be adjusted to suit driver size (50-130 kg). To increase safety during forklift operation, it is possible to set-up the truck so that the transmission and drive direction switch can only operate if the driver seat belt is fastened.

The driver can enjoy spacious head- and legroom in the broad interior. Clark has increased the floor area by 50 mm and also provided a lot more foot room near the pedals, which are arranged in compliance with automotive standards. This means safe operation even with large size safety shoes. To improve driver seat spatial conditions, Clark has designed a much slender steering wheel column. With the ergonomic steering wheel – with a small diameter of only 300 mm plus the hydrostatic power steering, the driver can steer the forklift without any exertion. All operating elements are positioned ergonomically. The driver operates the hydraulics either with hydraulic levers mounted to the engine cover, or optionally with mini-levers which are integrated into the fully adjustable, flexible armrest. For operation, it only requires minimum force, so that the arms and shoulders are not fatigued.

For easy upward visibility when moving items in and out of high racking areas and to protect against falling loads, Clark has redesigned the driver safety roof. Additionally, the front panel bulkhead is much lower and the upright design has been optimised with a smaller dimension middle cylinder and nestled upright rails. This also gives the driver an unimpeded front view of the loaded forks.

To make sure that loads can be safely moved in and out of storage, Clark has equipped the upright with a damping system that reduces shock and vibration during the transition between the individual lifting stages. This protects not just the load, but also the upright. An integrated tilt lock valve prevents the upright from tilting unintentionally or too fast forward. The automatic, electric parking brake increases safety on inclines. An anti-roll-back feature that can be switched on while on a gradient is also available as an option.

The new driver environment is rounded off by numerous storage options for driver utensils, a 12 V power connection and, upon request, an additional USB charger for mobile devices.

An extensive range of accessories boosts operational efficiency

Clark offers the S-Series with an extensive range of accessories for a variety of uses. In addition to a completely furnished driver cab with a two-part side door and sliding window, air conditioning with a cooling output of 4.3 kW and humidifier (for selected models), a heater with an adjustable heater valve, a heated rear screen as well as front and rear windscreen wipers, other features such as a reversing camera, safety light for visual warning while reversing, acoustic back-up alarm, optional driver seats with armrests or restraints as well as various attachments are also available.

“This is only the beginning. Clark will surprise the sector with additional innovative solutions and concepts. With the new S-Series, we not only prove that our products are well-prepared for the future, we also offer our customers an exceptional price/performance ratio,” says Rolf Eiten.