It is a major safety breakthrough based on Toyota's experience in advanced automotive technology. SAS concept includes 3 major functions:

1. SAS drive function
2. SAS mast function
3. SAS comfort function

This development means Toyota went a step further to tackle the safety issues highlighted above with a dynamic System of Active Stability.

1. When does a side tip-over occur ?

A side tip-over happens when the position of the centre of gravity of the forklift moves sideways, out of the stability area of the forklift. Typically, this occurs when a forklift is turning at high speeds, or changing directions.

		In the left picture the centre of gravity has moved out of the triangle of stability.
	To prevent this Toyota developed a steer axle locking device as shown on the right picture

2. When does a front tip-over occur and when can the lose load on back tilt happen ?

The balance pivot between the counterweight and the load is in centre of the front axle. A front tip over will occur when the position of the centre of gravity of the forklift moves forward, out of the stability area of the forklift. It happens when the centre of gravity of the rated load is too far forward.

 

		The risk of forward tip-over increases proportionally as the load is raised and the mast tilted forward (see on the left picture). When the truck is carrying a load above 2m, Toyota SAS limits the forward movement of the mast, therefore preventing accidental forward tip-over (see picture on the right).
	Another danger takcled by Toyota SAS is losing loads when tilting backwards. Toyota SAS automatically reduces the backward titling speed, avoiding such incidents.

3. Concerning the comfort, why using an auto levelling function? and why an active Steering Synchroniser function ?

To stack or unstack a load it is sometimes difficult to assess whether the forks are level with the ground or not. Auto Levelling allows the operator to automatically level his forks by depressing a button on the tilt lever, allowing him to be safer in the workplace and more efficient.

Toyota SAS ensures the steering knob always returns to the same position after a turn (at "8 o'clock" when driving in a straight line). The stress of the driver is reduced, and he is more efficient and safe in the workplace.