The History of The Fork Lift Truck
Episode 21: 1954 - A big year for innovation
Of the eight British manufacturers that produced new truck models during 1954, the Lister 'Autotruck' forklift was the only real surprise. Breaking with convention, it was the only non-rough terrain forklift truck with the mast and forks situated to the rear of the driver. Fitted with a single cylinder petrol engine, it had a lifting capacity of 1000lb to 9 feet. The operation of this machine, such as squaring up to a pallet, must have been quite demanding for the operator over an eight-hour shift.
Among the machines launched at the British Industries Fair this year was the new industrial model 'Freightlifter' from Shelvoke and Drewry. Known as the model 72, it was powered by a six-cylinder diesel engine, and could lift 5 tons to 14 feet.
Also at the same show were models from Wessex Industries, with the new 'Wrigley' and a 20-cwt battery-operated counterbalance truck from Leverstart Ltd. The 'Wrigley' was a battery-powered version of the earlier petrol engine model, but had similar drive features such as handle bar control and a motorcycle seat.
Over the other side of English Channel, in Germany, Steinbock launched their own 1- ton diesel counterbalance truck, the company's first ICE truck produced outside the Irion Company collaboration agreement. The Irion Company, meanwhile, had moved on to producing the Side Operating Carrier. Similar in operation to the Baker Travelloader, the truck had an original patented system for extending and retracting the reach carriage. As the schematic diagram shows, this was done via hydraulic cylinders, placed either side of the mast.
These trucks were first marketed in Britain through British Straddle Carrier Co Ltd, and then later in 1954 by Materials Handling Equipment Ltd (MHE.) MHE was also the main agent for heavy-duty forklifts made by German manufacturer Machinenfabrik Esslingen. Jungheinrich completed the launch of new trucks from this part of mainland Europe, with the official launch in Britain of the 'Ameise 55'. First seen at the Hanover Fair, this forklift truck was battery operated and was capable of lifting half a ton.
American companies were also active during 1954, with Clark leading the way. They expanded their interest in British manufacturing with the purchase of a third of the equity in ACPEV. After this event the company, now made up of Clark, the Austin Motor Co Ltd and Crompton Parkinson Ltd, was renamed Stacatruc Ltd.
Hyster launched new trucks in 1954, with the model RC 150, as did Elwell Parker with their small and highly manoeuvrable Cargo Scout. The RC 150 was produced with diesel or petrol engine and rated capable of lifting 15000lbs, whilst the new electric truck from Elwell Parker was limited to a lifting capacity of 2000lbs. The 'Scout's' principal features were full free lift to enable stacking in low headroom areas and a one handle control unit giving four speeds in both directions.
To be continued
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If you would like to support the National Fork Truck Heritage Centre please contact:
James Brindley
07801 954 167
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