The company will introduce two models, the 1.3m-wide JV400-130LX and a 1.6m configuration, the JV400-160LX, when it launches the series at this month's Fespa Digital show in Barcelona.

Both machines, which feature Mimaki's new latex ink, offer a maximum print speed of 18sqm an hour and can output at top resolutions of 900dpi.

The JV400 LX range will use the company's new latex ink set, which is claimed to use a low curing heat, consuming less energy and enabling the machines to print on a wider range of materials.

Mimaki's new latex printers are also the first to feature a white ink set that complements the machine's other six colours.

The aqueous latex ink set is a resin-based odour-free technology, which Mimaki said makes the machines suitable for production within shops, offices and commercial print businesses.

The JV400 LX machines can also take advantage of Mimaki's RasterLink6 RIP software that enables the deposition of three layers of ink in one pass, including a base layer of white ink for printers that support white ink.

Duncan Jefferies, marketing manager at Mimaki's UK and Ireland distributor Hybrid Services, would not be drawn on the pricing for the JV400 LX models but that detailing would emerge during Fespa.

"Latex technology is proving to be an attractive option in the wide format print market and we believe Mimaki has an excellent opportunity to drive this technology forward," he added.

The Mimaki JV400-LX will be launched at Fespa Digital in Barcelona from 21-24 February and receive a UK launch on Hybrid’s stand at Sign & Digital UK 2012 next month.

Miko Noguchi, president of Mimaki Engineering, added that the new machines are a "terrific example" of the company's innovation.

"The JV400 product line achieves faster print speed and higher print quality without compromise," he said.