As is so often the case with Combilift's innovations, the impetus for the development of this model came in part from customer feedback, as well as the recent rapid growth of e-commerce. "Customers already using the Aisle Master for space-saving and efficient operation in their warehouse asked us if we could redevelop this model to meet their ever-increasing demand for customized order picking," said Martin McVicar, CEO of Combilift.

The Aisle Master-OP was created through research and development in 2019 and 2020. A key feature of the truck is the full-length operator cab, which is a copyrighted design (European design registration no. 002676809-0001) in several markets on 4 continents. The low floor height of just 280 mm enables convenient, single-level access from both sides of the truck. This reduces picking times compared to the operator getting in and out from a seated position. The AME-OP model offers all the key benefits of the conventional Aisle Master: indoor and outdoor use for loading and unloading, and for warehouse replenishment when picking is not required.

The AME-OP is available in different versions, with load capacities from 1,500 kg to 2,500 kg, lifting heights of up to 12.1 m and can work in aisle widths of just 1,650 mm. It has a patented chain steering system (EU patent no. 3008008), which enables an articulation angle of more than 205°, as well as an inline drive motor and a front drive axle that allow it to be used in narrow aisles.

The multifunctional, programmable joystick in the operator's cab, which also controls the hydraulics and traction, is adjustable and can be adapted to the size of the operator to provide comfortable and ergonomic working conditions. An "Operator Presence Detection Floor Pad" (a floor pad that detects the presence of an operator) recognizes when the operator steps off the truck and automatically applies the parking brake.

"Before we officially launch a new model onto the market, we carry out extensive field tests with our customers, and this was also the case with the Aisle Master-OP," says Martin McVicar. The AME-OP is now in production at the Combilift factory in Monaghan, and units are currently being built for customers in the USA and New Zealand. One of these is Sorted Logistics based in Christchurch, New Zealand, a third party logistics provider and freight forwarder, who will be taking delivery of eight AME-OP units in the near future.

"This represents a significant innovation in the warehouse sector," added McVicar. "The versatility of the AME-OP model - narrow aisle operation, truck-to-shelf handling, bulk picking and single item picking - will lead to healthy demand for this new product in our home and export markets around the world.