Michelin invests in Roadster

Global tyre manufacturer Michelin Tyres is one of the first companies to have purchased the new Roadster truck to help manoeuvre its heavy tyre moulds safely in its rapidly expanding Stoke-on-Trent warehouse.

The Roadster is an alternative configuration which applies to models E20R to E35RHL to increase visibility by removing the A-pillar, with the additional option of replacing the metal overhead guard roof with a high strength safety glass panel for increased visibility when you’re stacking loads. Overhead tilt cylinders absorb the forces acting on the mast during operation and direct them backwards via the overhead guard frame.

A curved steel tube behind the steering column and dashboard serves as a boarding aid and allows the mounting of optional equipment such as a terminal, display for the Linde Safety Pilot assistance system or wind protection screen.

Alan Murdoch, FLT project leader at Michelin Tyres said: “The visibility of the new Linde Roadster is far superior to any other truck we have seen. The Roadster will carry large tyre moulds which, on a normal truck would impinge operators’ visibility. We’re constantly looking at innovative ways to help improve safety for our operators and other aspects of the workplace.

“Within our warehouse the business is expanding, we currently have more than 25 four wheel electric counterbalance trucks on site which are mainly fitted with tyre clamps, the extra visibility offered by the Roadster will help operator’s work with greater safety. Therefore this initial Roadster will be a good test for our future requirements."

David Bowen, product manager at Linde UK, said: “Whether operators are stacking loads at height or moving loads around a site, the increased visibility through the mast and upwards through the optional glass roof provided by the Roadster enhances safety and productivity.”

Suited for indoor use with an open cabin, most options from the conventional models in these ranges can be offered for the Roadster.

The truck was revealed at Linde’s World of Material Handling and showcased at IMHX this year and has been shortlisted in the safety category for the 2017 FLTA Awards for Excellence.