Manitou surprises with 15 m big deck

The 150 TP - shown in prototype form and likely to be available at the start of 2007 - uses a modified frame from a 10 m telehandler and a specially adapted, two-section handler boom, with a large, 1 t capacity deck. The platform can move horizontally or vertically at the touch of a single button.

Manitou's access product manager, Christian Lajous, told Access International that the platform will provide a total 14 m working length from a single ground position at platform heights of between 5 m and 11 m.

He said the main applications would be for tunnel maintenance and repair, as well as jobs such as glass and cladding installation. Manitou is currently developing a number of work tools and material handling systems to fit the platform.

The unit has a self-levelling rear axle, which is able to level on slopes up to +/-8 degrees, and an oscillating front axle. Power is provided by a Perkins 404C22 engine, the same as used on Manitou's ATJ articulated boom models. Manitou would not provide any pricing information.

Meanwhile, Manitou confirmed at Intermat that it remains committed to the access market long term, and said it planned to double aerial platform production capacity in France during 2006.