Das weltweite Magazin und der Marktplatz für Oldtimer-Enthusiasten – von Enthusiasten.
Das weltweite Magazin und der Marktplatz für Oldtimer-Enthusiasten – von Enthusiasten.
What we see here is what is most likely to be the first forklift manufactured by a British company, the Coventry Climax ET199. The photo was probably taken in 1946 - 1947. The car is something of a mystery to us, but looks to be a pre-war Humber/ Lea Francis/ Standard (any experts?).
In pre-war times the first forklifts came into use thanks to the introduction of hydraulic power as well as the development of the first electrically-powered forklifts, along with the use of standardized pallets in the 1930s. However, it wasn’t until World War II that they became indispensable for loading war goods onto wagons and ships. In the UK, forklifts were still imported from other countries until Coventry Climax started developing their own forklifts (they, of course, were already making other machines like cycle-cars). This type ET199 was designed to carry a 4,000 lb (1,800 kg) load with a 24-inch (610 mm) load centre, and with a 9 ft (2.7 m) lift height. They had a twin-cylinder diesel engine, with both pistons moving together so that the engine fired on every revolution. It also had balancing shafts, giving a very smooth-running engine.
We don't know what these gentlemen were saying to this lovely as well as tough lady, but we feel sure you can come up with some suggestions. She is definitely taking her love to the next level. Happily they are all still smiling, and it looks like the driver is negotiating with the lady. We hope you can enlighten us with ideas about what caused this situation. Please give us your best caption!