Michelin buys Roadster trucks to improve warehouse safety

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

The Roadster is an alternative configuration which applies to models E20 to E50R to increase visibility by removing the A-pillar and 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 clipboard.

Alan Murdock, FLT project leader at Michelin Tyres PLC 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 of the roadster through the mast and upwards through the glass roof enhances safety and productivity.”

Suited for indoor use with an open cabin, most options from the conventional models in these ranges are available.

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

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