Kanoo Machinery in Jeddah has launched the first of the new generation of Hyster computer-controlled ‘fly-by-wire’ reach trucks in Saudi Arabia. 

The keys to the first two trucks to arrive in the kingdom were handed over to Bob Curtis, general manager, machinery, by Mike Collins from Hyster UK, who flew in for the event.
“Though the reach truck is not a new concept, this is the first reach truck designed from scratch and the first ever built using Demand Flow Technology (DFT). The Matrix is virtually built to order to meet the specific demands of its operating environment and the Gulf environment,” said Kanoo Machinery.
“The customer can choose a basic mode that incorporates standard parts and features,” said Ali Abdullah Kanoo, “but the innovative design means that there is a matrix of options that will deliver a product that best matches their requirements.”
Customers have a choice of basic models, capacities, frames and chassis width. To this basic configuration, they can add the correct mast for their application with different lift heights from 6,800 mm to 11.426 m, the company said.
The basic Matrix model has a range of standard features such as an ergonomically designed operator compartment, the accuracy of 180-degree fly-by-wire steering, the operating benefits of AC electronics technology and a Controlled Area Network (CANbus) electronic system. There are options such as 360-degree fly-by-wire steering or a unique joystick control in place of lever hydraulic controls.
There is a different set of options for customers who want to use the Matrix for drive-in racking or a refrigerated warehouse. The range provides the widest range of options and highest technology available on a reach truck. 
A real attraction of the truck is the computer. A joystick or free rotating miniature steering wheel and an array of neat levers control the onboard computer. As in modern aircraft, the operator doesn’t physically control any part of the machine; he merely instructs the computer through the control panel. Ultra-fine levels of control are possible, and this allows much safer operation.
Electrically and mechanically there are a lot of new technological features - the new mast design is one of them. It gives the driver greater visibility, offers high lift/lower speeds and a full residual capacity to 7.5 meters. Hyster has also incorporated intersection dampening to facilitate a smooth and controlled performance. The electronic systems contain the most up-to-date technology there is, the company said.
This is the first Hyster AC powered warehouse truck which offers maximum performance levels coupled to the minimum power consumption. The CANbus electronic system, allows operators the multi-function capability to change between preset performance parameters or to access service diagnostic information. The operator compartment space has greater cab depth, which allows more legroom and comfort.
The technological advances in the steering console offer password security features to control driver access, a height and weight indicator and a height pre-selection facility with a memory for storing up to 20 different height levels.
The truck is designed to operate in narrow warehouse aisles. “It allows greater storage and racking density per square metre, a real potential money-saver for businesses,” said Jim Elliott, divisional operations manager for Kanoo Machinery, who put the truck through its paces. “The new AC drive technology means greater power. Coupled with low servicing and lubrication and zero emission, it’s very eco-friendly.”
Moving heavy loads presents unique safety problems. The technology built into the machine prevents an operator cornering at high speed, weighs the load and calculates the safety parameters during operation.
“We are set to push back the boundaries of the reach truck and materials handling industry,” said Ali Kanoo. “I’m confident that the new technology has a great future here.”
To support the product locally, Hyster has teamed up with Yusuf Bin Ahmed Kanoo in Saudi Arabia, Bahrain, Qatar and the UAE and a network of other dealers in the rest of the region.
“The Matrix reconfirms Hyster’s competitive position in the warehouse market. It pushes back the boundaries of the ‘reach truck’ with its range of features, quality of design and manufacture and its overall performance with the strongest integrated support network in the Middle East,” the company said.