Cargotec’s Kalmar business area has been awarded a contract to supply three new hybrid terminal tractors for technology trials being carried out by the Port of Long Beach, CA, USA.

The Port of Los Angeles and the Port of Long Beach are well-known as leaders in environmentally friendly, sustainable port operations.

The three hybrid terminal tractors will be based on Kalmar’s well established Ottawa 4 X 2 terminal tractor, already proven in use at terminals across the world. They will be fitted with a Parallel Hybrid Drive system which converts power from on-board batteries, having been charged by the OEM Diesel engine or regenerative braking system, to an electric motor for propulsion through the rear axle. This technology is being developed by Kalmar’s development partner in Hybrid technology, US Hybrid in Torrance California.

Jay Hayes, Vice President, Research and Development, Kalmar terminal tractors at Cargotec said:

“The trials will commence in about a year and will last for a full twelve months. The trials should not only prove the hybrid concept with new terminal tractors, but also that used terminal tractors can be modified to hybrid power. We estimate that adding a hybrid kit may result in fuel savings of up to 30 per cent.

“We will start getting results as soon as the tests commence and will come to our final conclusions during and after the testing.”

About Kalmar

Kalmar is part of Cargotec. Cargotec improves the efficiency of cargo flows by offering handling systems and the related services for the loading and unloading of goods. Cargotec’s brands, Hiab, Kalmar and MacGREGOR, are global market leaders in their fields and their solutions are used on land and at sea – wherever cargo is on the move. Kalmar container and heavy duty materials handling equipment and automation applications are provided to ports, terminals and intermodal facilities world-wide. Extensive services close to customers ensure the continuous usability of equipment.

Cargotec is the technology leader in its field, its R&D focusing on innovative solutions that take environmental considerations into account. Cargotec’s sales total EUR 3.4 billion and it employs approximately 12,000 people. Cargotec’s class B shares are quoted on the NASDAQ OMX Helsinki.