Cargotec’s Kalmar business area has reported sales of its terminal tractors have reached an all-time high during 2008. An increase of more than 100% has been achieved against a background of a very competitive marketplace through a product strategy aimed at delivering application-specific machines.

Following the launch of its icon series terminal tractors in September 2007, Kalmar’s application-based strategy was reinforced with the introduction of its purpose-built TT612d distribution tractor in the spring of 2008.

Mark Williamson, President EMEA region, Kalmar, said: “We have witnessed a significant change in the market as products designed for specific applications have been introduced. Kalmar EMEA area’s terminal tractor sales have more than doubled, proving that our customers appreciate our work. They want to buy machines that do exactly what they need. Together with major improvements to our services and sales network in Europe, Kalmar’s terminal tractors offer an attractive proposition.”

 “The Netherlands and the UK have a highly developed network of dedicated distribution centres. Our purpose-built TT612d distribution tractor has quickly become established as the machine of choice for distribution centre operations both here and across Europe.”

Not only is the new distribution tractor selling well. Kalmar’s Ottawa terminal tractors, already well established as the robust workhorse of the Global container terminal industry, are becoming increasingly popular in the Middle East and Africa. Kalmar’s long-term relationship with its customers means that they can work together to explore how Kalmar’s tractors can be customised to meet specific operational requirements.

Timo Matikainen, Director, Heavy Terminal Tractors, Kalmar, said: “The icon series terminal tractor was designed specifically for use in ports and container terminals. The icon’s enhanced performance and cost efficiency both improve the operation’s productivity, which is increasingly important to our customers.  Many customers have also valued the icon’s redesigned operator cabin that offers a significantly improved working environment.”

The CAN-BUS control system integrates all functions into a single system and shows full operational and service data on one display panel, making tractor operations faster, safer and simpler. Its state-of-the-art diagnostic capabilities also assist in service and maintenance planning, saving time, effort and cost.

Kalmar is the world’s leading producer of terminal tractors. Featuring enhanced manoeuvrability, Kalmar’s TT612d distribution tractor allows faster transfer operations as it has the industry’s smallest turning radius. Time is also saved with its hydraulically-powered elevating 5th wheel, eliminating the need for the driver to crank the trailer’s landing gear and thereby decreasing operator fatigue. Drivers will also enjoy conveniently placed switches and controls, improved visibility and a very quiet cabin. 

Kalmar’s commitment to the environment remains a critical element in the design of its products. The TT612d features Kalmar’s proven power line including the cleanest engine standards with Stage 3a / Tier 3 technology emitting only the minimum of harmful emissions. The distribution tractor combines innovation and reliability resulting in low operating costs with a machine design which decreases component wear. Easier maintenance also improves productivity and profitability with more accessible service points.

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Kalmar is a global provider of container and heavy duty materials handling equipment, automation applications and related services. It is the world's leading supplier of cargo handling equipment to ports, terminals and intermodal facilities.

Every fourth container or trailer transfer at terminals around the world is handled by a Kalmar machine. The company also supplies a wide range of machines to demanding industrial customers for applications as diverse as handling steel and paper to shunting road trailers at distribution hubs.

Kalmar is also leading the way in port automation applications with its application of unmanned container handling technology, on-board smart features and remote maintenance products developed in cooperation with customers and partners.

Kalmar's product range is complemented by a large range of value added services such as maintenance contracts and fleet management. Production plants are situated in Sweden, Finland, the Netherlands, Malaysia, China and the USA.  Kalmar's net sales were EUR 1.343 billion in 2007.

Kalmar is part of Cargotec Corporation, the world's leading provider of cargo handling solutions, which are used in local transportation, terminals, ports, distribution centres, and ships. Cargotec’s sales exceed EUR 3 billion and the company employs approximately 12,000 people. Cargotec’s class B shares are quoted on the NASDAQ OMX Helsinki.