The success of Cargotec’s purpose-built Kalmar terminal tractors continues to go from strength to strength with the recent production of its 50,000th unit at the company’s US manufacturing facility in Ottawa, Kansas. This achievement far surpasses the production pace of competitors further emphasising Cargotec’s expertise in offering durable, ergonomic and reliable trailer handling solutions.

This monumental machine is part of an order from Safeway, Inc. for twelve 4x2 Kalmar Ottawa terminal tractors. A customer for more than two decades, the national grocer deploys nearly 100 terminal tractors supplied by Cargotec at its distribution facilities in the US and Canada. All of the units will be delivered by the second quarter of 2011.

David Wood, Director of Terminal Tractors in North America, says Cargotec is the leader in most terminal tractor market segments because of its extensive experience backed by the industry’s most comprehensive dealer network. He explains:  

“For more than 50 years, Cargotec has been offering world-class trailer handling solutions for port, intermodal and distribution customers. Our market leadership in terminal tractors is the result of our dedicated people, willingness to adapt to customers’ needs, and ability to produce productive, cost effective machines.

“We are proud to present Safeway – one of the largest food and drug retailers in North America – with the 50,000th terminal tractor from our Ottawa facility. Their commitment to innovation and creating value for their customers is something we also strive for at Cargotec, and our partnership has benefitted from this shared approach.”

The popularity of Kalmar terminal tractors – originally branded under the Ottawa name – has grown rapidly in recent years. In April 2008, the Ottawa factory produced its 45,000th unit, reinforcing the superiority of Cargotec’s offering and its customers’ desire to fulfill just-in-time inventory requirements which influenced more rental and fleet sales. It took 41 years to build the first 25,000 units and less than twelve years to build the next 25,000 machines.

Cargotec paves the way in trailer handling

As the world’s leader in terminal tractors offering the most comprehensive range of models for heavy industry, ports and terminals, and distribution centres, Cargotec’s commitment to continuous product development has resulted in many industry firsts.

Besides being the original manufacturer of terminal tractors, Cargotec was the first to offer machines with an automatic transmission, a rear door entry, integral air conditioning units, power cab tilt and ABS brake systems. Kalmar terminal tractors were also the first on the market to receive DOT/EPA certification – a paramount classification for distribution and industrial customers whose operation entails shunting trailers between yards via public streets and roadways.

With emission regulations growing ever stricter, Cargotec launched late last year the industry’s first hydraulic hybrid terminal tractor. Featuring improved performance, better fuel efficiency and reduced nitrous oxide and particulate matter emissions, the hybrid machine joins Cargotec’s portfolio of eco-friendly terminal tractors including machines powered by alternative fuels, such as CNG (Compressed Natural Gas) and LNG (Liquefied Natural Gas).