Just because we spend our days elbow-deep in supercars doesn't mean that we can't enjoy a slow oddity once in a while. Say hello to the Palfinger Crayler BM 214, a forklift unlike anything else in the world.
Normally, forklifts have a tall, body design and weight a lot because of the counterweights at the back. They run on electricity because interior spaces and conbustion don't mix and can't go very far. But some companies in Europe found they needed a mobile forklift that could be transported with the payload. Thus, the Palfinger Crayler BM 214 was born.
This small machine is remote controlled and has been designed to fit underneath a truck trailer, thus helping with deliveries.
The BM 214 weighs 1,745 kilograms (3,858 lbs), most of which is in the counterweight at the back. There is an articulation in the middle that allows it to move with the dexterity of a go kart.
Its maximum load capacity is 2.1 tons, which is perfect for relatively large items that can't be moved by men. Power comes from a 3-cylidner diesel motor that produces only 34 horsepower and feeds the hydraulic system as well. The top speed is only 6 km/h (4 mph), but it can climb steep inclines, which is very helpful.
Once its job is done, the Palfinger will fold its forks and occupy a space that's 2,430mm long 1,950mm wide and 810mm tall (95 inches long, 77 inches wide and 32 inches tall). In the two videos below, you can watch it do its job and be stowed away like one of those folding chairs you hide behind a door.
Mihnea's favorite cars have already been built, the so-called modern classics from the '80s and '90s. He also loves local car culture from all over the world, so don't be surprised to see him getting excited about weird Japanese imports, low-rider VWs out of Germany, replicas from Russia or LS swaps down in Florida. Full profile
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