Your application is the primary consideration when choosing between cushion- or pneumatic-tire counter balanced forklifts. Here's a brief profile:

Cushion-tire trucks are designed for use only on concrete or asphalt surfaces. Most commonly, they are specified for indoor work in manufacturing facilities, warehouses and distribution centers. Cushion-tire forklifts are smaller than comparable capacity pneumatic models so they usually cost less. That makes their resale value lower, too.

Pneumatic-tire trucks can go indoors and out on improved surfaces. This would include blacktop and hard-packed stones or dirt, but not rough terrains like a plowed field or a severely potholed lot. The trucks have a larger frame and their initial price is higher than a comparable cushion-tire model. When it comes to resale, however, pneumatics have a higher value. One reason is their surface versatility, given enough maneuvering space.

The two forklifts have different frames, so you cannot simply change from cushion to pneumatic tires if your application changes. You can, however, change to a different tire style -- from smooth press-ons to traction, grooved or wide-track tires, or from a press-on tire to a resilient. If you'd like to know more about tire options, give your local dealer a call.

Speed

One example: the new FG25N Mitsubishi forklift truck with a 2.1 liter engine outperformed another leading brand's 5,000 lb capacity model, equipped with an optional 3.0 liter engine. Despite a slight edge to the competition in acceleration, the FG25N had better lifting and lowering speeds. Its fuel economy far outshone this rival, too.

Fuel economy

On a European testing field, Mitsubishi forklift trucks consistently used less fuel per hour against similarly sized Toyota, Nissan and Hyster models. For example, the FG25N used almost 1 lb less per hour than the Hyster truck -- which could mean a difference of thousands of dollars over the truck's lifetime.

The alternating current (AC) electric Mitsubishi forklift trucks also use the latest technologies and thermal efficiencies to show high efficiency ratings.

Visibility

Our designers consider both the opening between the mast channels and the free lift assembly, with the result that all new trucks feature a narrow lift cylinder and a wider free space between the mast than our competitors' models. This improves visibility and reduces operator fatigue.

4. Operator comfort

The operator restraint system on new Mitsubishi forklift trucks consists of steel-wrapped hip restraints with a foam material which provides more strength and comfort than competitors' models. In seat belts, our trucks feature a comfort-stretch elastic strap to facilitate operating the forklift in reverse. Operator fatigue is also reduced by a small, maneuverable steering wheel and hydraulic levers that require significantly less energy to operate.

We can show you competitive data for all of these factors and other comparisons as well. Our salespeople can talk all day about drive axle strength, overhead guard and sideshifter designs, maintenance intervals and a whole lot more.

Whether you want a cushion or pneumatic tire model, an engine or battery-powered truck, give your local dealer a call to learn how our Mitsubishi forklift trucks provide value, reliable performance and increased productivity.