The new machine is the result of Cargotec's partnership with Singapore Technologies Kinetics Ltd (ST Kinetics) and its subsidiary Kinetics Drive Solutions Inc, a leader in the research and development of hybrid technology. The Kalmar hydraulic hybrid drive terminal tractor is equipped with a parallel system that simultaneously transmits power from two distinct sources - the primary diesel engine and the secondary hydraulic motor. The coordination of these power sources maximises fuel economy and satisfies performance constraints.
Mikko Vuojolainen, Vice President, Terminal Tractors, says many operational challenges for hybrid systems in terminal tractors had to be addressed before introducing one to the market.
"The normal application of a terminal tractor involves many stops and starts where frequent idling and reverse motion is common. This inconsistent use of power makes it difficult to consistently capture regenerative energy.
After carrying out extensive testing on a variety of alternatives, it was clear that ST Kinetics' Hy-POWER hydraulic hybrid drive system combined with clean diesel engine technology offered the most benefits to the customer and environment. In this application, energy is only transferred twice as opposed to four times with an electric hybrid."
Although fuel consumption with the hydraulic hybrid system can vary depending on driving style and the operational application, in the typical port environment, fuel savings of 20 percent and an even greater reduction of NOx and particulate matter emissions can be achieved. Cargotec has given the new Kalmar hydraulic hybrid drive terminal tractor its Pro Future(TM) rating - adding to the company's expanding portfolio of environmentally friendly solutions.
"The pressure to reduce emissions at ports and in urban areas is strongest in the United States. We have engineered the Kalmar hydraulic hybrid drive terminal tractor to help customers meet ever-stricter regulations in this part of the world and to combat expensive exhaust after-treatment solutions."
He continues: "In addition to financial constraints, companies operating large fleets of equipment in confined spaces, often near urban developments, can come under significant pressure to reduce their environmental footprint," adds Vuojolainen. "With the number of machines involved in normal port operations, any fuel savings per machine can translate into significant savings when applied to a whole fleet."
Improved Cost-effectiveness
Besides improving the fuel economy and reducing emissions, a Kalmar terminal tractor equipped with the optional Hy-POWER hydraulic hybrid drive system enjoys significantly smoother acceleration helping to reduce driver fatigue and driveline wear. The machine's inching function also allows the vehicle to advance without engine power, further saving fuel and eliminating emissions altogether. All this combines to make the cost-effectiveness of a Kalmar hydraulic hybrid drive terminal tractor the most competitive hybrid solution on today's market.
No Downtime Due to Recharging
Vuojolainen believes that customers in North America will appreciate and accept this hybrid solution because of its many benefits.
"One remarkable advantage of the Kalmar hydraulic hybrid drive terminal tractor is that the parallel system allows the vehicle to function with or without its secondary power source. This feature further ensures the availability of the machine, not to mention its lack of downtime due to recharging," he says.
Ease of Maintenance
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