Launch of Rough Terrain Forklift
Shumani Industrial Equipment has launched the Bheka rough terrain forklift and is the second company in the country to offer this specialised equipment. Says MD Victor Nemukula “We have had a lot of customers enquiring about a rough terrain forklift. They were not just looking for a rough terrain forklift, but an equipment brand they could identify with.”
The Bheka rough terrain forklift is built for demanding environments and rugged applications. “A rough terrain forklift is either a four-wheel drive or two-wheel drive. It has large, heavy-duty tyres with high ground clearance. It also has a robust frame and chassis,” explains Victor. These features make it ideally suited to sectors such as construction, farming, and forestry, environments where standard forklifts cannot operate effectively.
Optimised energy conservation
The Bheka rough terrain forklift is designed for rough applications like construction and farms that have uneven outdoor surfaces. It is not only designed for performance, but also for durability and ease of use. The forklift incorporates a reliable transmission proven in the market for over 30 years, representing mature and trusted technology. A lowering damper and wide-view mast reduce vibration and enhance operator comfort during use.
Full LED lights and a large LCD screen improve visibility and provide real-time operational data, while water-proof electrical connectors ensure the machine is ready for demanding outdoor conditions. The forklift uses a confluence of dual lifting pumps alongside load-sensing power steering, delivering enhanced hydraulic performance with optimised energy conservation.
Dependable and serviceable
Braking safety and reliability are reinforced through an enhanced wear-resistant brake drum and a well-engineered braking system that reduces shock and performs reliably, even in wet conditions.
Stronger 14PR rear tyres ensure a longer service life, and the buckled front floorboard design allows for quick disassembly and easy maintenance access. These features collectively make the Bheka rough terrain forklift a dependable and serviceable solution for tough operating environments.
Extensive support
Shumani’s decision to enter this space responds not only to market demand but also reinforces its long-standing reputation for innovation and customer-centric solutions. “We are a significant player in the forklift and material handling market, known for coming up with products that are designed,” adds Victor.
With only one other provider currently operating in the rough terrain forklift space, Shumani aims to differentiate itself through its extensive national support infrastructure and commitment to operational excellence.
National footprint
“Shumani is the largest black-owned and managed forklift equipment provider in the market now, with a national footprint to support its product offering. We strive to offer 95% uptime of our equipment and a two-hour response time on service around the country,” Victor highlights.
The company’s wide-reaching support includes service centres across South Africa, from Polokwane to Cape Town, with regional offices in Johannesburg, Durban, Port Elizabeth and Cape Town. “We also have technicians going as far as the Northern Cape, Free State and Limpopo and can service any customer anywhere in the country. We carry OEM parts to support our customers,” he concludes.
