Manitou Equipment India

bauma India offers us a platform to showcase advanced solutions in material handling, access, and construction, particularly through leveraging our local manufacturing capabilities.
Steve Ryder - VP - PU BHL, Managing Director MEI, Operations, Manitou Equipment India

What are the features of Manitou’s two new ranges of rotative telehandlers VISION and VISION+?

The VISION range offers a wide selection of 14 models with heights ranging from 16 meters (52’5”) to 25 meters (82’), for a load capacity of up to 4.5 tons (9,900 lbs). The highest capacities are grouped together in the VISION+ range, which features 12 new models. The range has been completely revamped with six new products: MRT 2260, MRT 2660, MRT 3570 (also available in an electronic suspension version), MRT 2570 and MRT 3060. This high-capacity range meets the growing demand for machines that give higher performance.

With models offering a lifting height of 22 meters to 35 meters and an improved capacity of up to 7 tons, this range is ideal for installation of structural steelwork, renovation of buildings, and even demolition. The two ranges are connected as standard in order to optimize maintenance, increase the machines’ operating hours, and thereby reduce the total cost of ownership for the user.

Both the rotative telehandlers, VISION and VISION+ launched in 2021, come with a wide range of attachments that enable their application in heavy-duty jobs such as highways and industrial projects. Attachments include hydraulic winch, platform, forks, etc. We have also modernized the design and ergonomics of our products such that they now come with a single cab across all the models in the range. The cabs provide excellent visibility to the operators, whatever be the model. Having the same cab also means having an equivalent control station on all models, making it easier for the operators to get to grips with them.

How do the new operator cabs enhance safety and ergonomics?

The VISION name also conveys the idea of in-cab visibility. Present on all VISION and VISION+ models, the pressurized cab guarantees a healthy working environment for the operator and additional sound insulation for greater comfort.

To further increase visibility, a reinforced gridless roof, certified to ROPS/FOPS level 2, is available as an option for closely monitoring loading operations at height. To give operators complete visibility, there is a rear camera that sends images of the site / terrain to the operator, allowing him to maneuver the machine with greater confidence.

Four accesses built into the chassis, on the left and right, and at the front and rear of the machine, enable the operator to climb into and out of the machine with ease, regardless of which way the cab is rotated.

A brand-new 8” vertical touchscreen on the VISION range, and a 12.1” XXL version on the VISION+ range, is a human-machine interface that can rival any touchscreen in the automotive sector.

Please elaborate on the features of your MHT range of telehandlers for tunneling and mining jobs.

Our MHT range of fixed telehandlers are designed to handle heavy and bulky loads on all types of terrains in complete safety. The telehandlers’ performance has been greatly improved with capacities ranging from 9 to 33 tons, for a working height of up to 12 meters.

The ergonomics in the operator cab have been enhanced with a comfortable and easy-to-reach operator station, wide, non-slip steps, a large door, and an “Easy Step” floor cut-out that allows safe entry and exit from the cab. The new Manitou JSM joystick now incorporates a capacitive system for automatic and precise detection of the operator’s hand for safe working.

We have launched an AI generative program this year, and most of our employees will be trained on its usage during the next months.

How is your company innovating to reduce energy consumption and minimize emissions in its equipment?

Manitou Group outlines its 2030 low carbon pathway, which constructed in line with the Science Based Targets initiative (SBTi), relies on the single international reference defined according to the reports of the IPCC (Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change). Using 2019 as the benchmark year, the first target applicable in scopes 1 and 2 involves reducing direct and indirect CO2 emissions by 46% by 2030 throughout its worldwide locations.

The second target concerns the emissions in scope 3 (value chain), with a 34% reduction in CO2 emissions generated for every hour of use of the machines produced by the Group. This low carbon pathway was validated by SBTi in July 2022.

This is a transformative stage for the Group. The climate issue is an opportunity to reinforce our competitive edge by transitioning to a low carbon intensity economy. We are doing everything to steer the ecological transition towards a more sustainable economic model. We have set ambitious yet realistic targets that we can achieve by innovating with our customers, suppliers and employees. 89% of our indirect emissions (scope 3) come from the use of products. It is therefore a collective approach for the whole value chain.

To accomplish these targets, Manitou Group will rely on the following tactics:

• Develop new electric ranges and innovate with hydrogen => 43% of our ranges sold in 2030 will be low carbon.
• Continue the work undertaken in the last 10 years on the energy efficiency of equipment
• Reinforce eco-design with a global life cycle approach
• Increase use of recycled materials when purchasing components
• Use low-carbon solutions for upstream and downstream freight
• Develop the activity of spare parts from the circular economy
• Reduce energy consumption at construction sites and roll out a green energy procurement program

How is the company dealing with price competitiveness, tariff issues, logistics, and local content regulations in key export markets?

Global markets are quite competitive, however, the biggest one being North America where, in 2023, we launched two new ranges of telehandlers and skid steer loaders and track loaders, all built locally. We have introduced four ranges of products built in India for the developing markets.

We have been the market leader in telehandlers for a long time and have a head start in building the best products with new innovative technologies. We don’t really have any issues on tariffs so far, and, as regards logistics, we have been selling products across the world for decades so we know how to handle logistics efficiently.

How is your company optimizing manufacturing processes and addressing supply chain issues?

Due to the rising production costs and operational challenges, we are optimizing manufacturing and supply chain processes. We are streamlining in-plant operations based on lean manufacturing principles, allowing us to minimize waste, improve efficiency, and enhance overall productivity.

Our advanced ERP system is helping us in optimizing supply chain management by maximizing stock turns and ensuring the right materials are available when needed, reducing both costs and potential delays.

We are also driving efficiency in inbound logistics to the plant, which not only reduces transportation costs but also lowers our carbon footprint. These innovations and practices enable us to manage costs effectively while maintaining high standards in quality and delivery timelines.

The MSME sector is crucial to the success of the construction equipment supply chain. How can upskilling MSMEs ensure high-quality component production?

The MSME sector is indeed vital to the construction equipment supply chain, and we are committed to supporting their growth and capability building to ensure high-quality component production. We are actively involved in initiatives like supplier development programs, where we work closely with MSMEs to help them improve quality control, operational efficiency, and scalability.

How does your participation at bauma India 2024 reflect the theme of ‘Innovation for Nation Building,’ and what specific innovations are you showcasing?

Our participation at bauma India 2024 reflects our dedication to the theme of “Innovation for Nation Building” through the introduction of pioneering, sustainable equipment designed to meet India’s construction needs. We are thrilled to showcase new product launches under the BSV brand, which highlight our commitment to sustainability. For instance, our latest backhoe loader model not only reduces exhaust emissions, but is over 12% more fuel efficient than its predecessor, significantly lowering both its carbon footprint and operating costs for our customers. We are also presenting our electric scissor lifts, which provide safe, environmentally friendly solutions for working at heights.

bauma India offers us a unique platform to emphasize Manitou Group’s dedication to developing advanced solutions in material handling, access, and construction, particularly through leveraging our local manufacturing capabilities. Our approach to “Innovate in India for India and the World” is central to our mission of supporting sustainable nation-building.