Utilevs are made in a distinctive colour

Nacco Materials Handling Group Inc (NMHG) introduced its basic low-cost Utilev-brand forklifts initially in certain Latin American markets during 2011.

Forkliftaction.com News learns that the Zhejiang Hangcha Import & Export Co Ltd in Hangzhou, China manufactures the forklifts. NMHG neither confirms nor denies that.

Utilev counterbalance models come in six lifting capacities in a range of 3,300-7,700 lb. (1,500-3,500 kg) and with internal combustion engine power using diesel, liquid petroleum gas or a dual-fuel system. The NMHG Ltd unit in Fleet, England posts additional details about the new brand, which promises to deliver "utility you can trust".

In a 19 December news release, NMHG says the Utilev line "provides an attractive option for users across many industries who require materials handling equipment but may not need advanced functionality" and offers "an uncomplicated approach . . . providing affordable, reliable and cost-effective . . . solutions in applications where materials handling equipment is needed intermittently during the working week".

NMHG plans to display powder-blue Utilev models at the MODEX 2012 trade show in Atlanta, Georgia on 6-9 February. Also, NMHG has MODEX space for its Hyster brand and its Yale brand.

NMHG is a wholly owned subsidiary of publicly traded Mayfield Heights-based Nacco Industries Inc and employs about 5,000 staff worldwide.