PTB Special Products will supply remote-controlled battery exchange trucks for the Port of Singapore.

PTB platform truck

The special platform trucks were developed to change out batteries for automated guided vehicles (AGVs). The Port of Singapore uses these AGVs for unattended and automatic transfer of sea containers. To ensure 24/7 availability, these electric carriers require regular battery changes.

The order is part of the development of the new Tuas Mega Port which will replace the Singapore port district in 2030, bringing the current capacity of 35 million containers a year up to 65 million. The Tuas Mega Port plan aims for a high degree of automation. The AGV container systems and PTB battery exchange trucks will play a key role in autonomous container transfer in the world's second-largest port.

PTB Special Products was selected for this project because of its highly specialised knowledge in this area.

In addition to standard functions such as battery lifting, transfer and positioning, the main requirements are geared towards minimising deviations during battery pack placement and meticulous control precision. To meet these challenges, PTB designed the machine with a radio remote control system, for safe and accurate battery placement in the AGVs. The machines also feature a special sideshift function, enabling lateral platform movement. This technology is not normally offered in pallet trucks because their structure cannot accommodate it.

While the plant readies the battery exchange trucks for shipment to Singapore, preparations are under way to build two platform trucks, one with 12 T of lifting capacity, and the other with 20 T. Both machines are for a company that produces transformers for the electricity grid.