Back in 1952, Hyster embarked on its European journey by establishing its first plant in Nijmegen. It was in January 1953 that the very first Hyster Big Trucks rolled off the assembly line at this location. The grand inauguration of the facility took place in October 1953, a significant event attended by prominent dignitaries and more than 500 guests. Notably, the Mayor of Nijmegen inaugurated the site by cutting the ribbon, an event that featured him riding a Hyster lift truck.
Remarkably, the Nijmegen plant remains situated on the same grounds where it all began. However, its role has evolved significantly over the decades, and it now serves as the global hub for design, development, and testing of Hyster Big Trucks worldwide. This extensive portfolio encompasses heavy-duty forklifts with capacities ranging from 8 to 48 tonnes, Hyster Empty Container Handlers, and the Hyster RS46 ReachStacker. Moreover, the facility provides comprehensive support services for the entire range of Big Trucks.
The Research and Development center located in Nijmegen has always been dedicated to shaping the future of Big Trucks. In recent years, this commitment has resulted in the introduction of a new cabin, available across most Big Truck models. This cabin incorporates a range of ergonomic features and productivity enhancements, all within an efficient cockpit-style design. Furthermore, the center has introduced Big Truck engines that adhere to the Stage V emissions standards and innovative solutions that enable the use of HVO100 fuel in Big Trucks, contributing to a reduction in CO2 tailpipe emissions for businesses.
A notable shift in focus at the Nijmegen R&D center has been towards supporting the transition to zero-emission port equipment, with a particular emphasis on lithium-ion battery and hydrogen fuel cell technologies. This represents a far cry from the early days of producing ‘Karry Kranes’ and forklifts, which were based on tractor frames and might now be considered primitive by today’s standards.
The dedicated team in Nijmegen has undertaken several key projects, including the testing of a hydrogen fuel cell-powered container handler at the Port of Los Angeles. Additionally, they have developed an Empty Container Handler powered by hydrogen fuel cells for Hamburger Hafen und Logistik AG in Germany, and are working on a fuel-cell powered ReachStacker for the Port of Valencia in Spain. Hyster is also in the process of creating a 100% battery-powered Hyster Empty Container Handler for use by CARU Containers in Rotterdam, the Netherlands. Earlier this year, Hyster also provided a sneak peek of a zero-emission Terminal Tractor, powered by Nuvera hydrogen fuel cells, developed in collaboration with the yard truck brand Capacity.
Peter van Sommeren, Senior Director Manufacturing and European Parts Ops, stated, “The Nijmegen plant has always been committed to delivering dependable Hyster Big Trucks that can withstand the rigors of tough applications and demanding working conditions. The fact that we are still here and continuing to innovate after 70 years is a testament to the quality of our manufacturing and our deep understanding of our customers’ ever-evolving challenges.”
