Kalmar’s new ST122 terminal tractor is proving a hit with Walkers Snack Foods, a leading UK manufacturer of snacks. Walkers has taken delivery of its tenth Kalmar tractor and has ordered an eleventh.
As distribution centres grow in size, demand for Kalmar’s specialised tractor units for shunting semi-trailers around large manufacturing and distribution centres is growing.
Responding to this demand, Kalmar has launched its latest generation ST122 terminal tractor, which is one of the latest examples of Kalmar’s application-based models for efficient distribution operations. The ST122 features a smooth, even rear-deck with wide and safe stairways on both sides, allowing drivers to make air and electrical connections for every trailer.
Dave Parkes, fleet engineer for PepsiCo UK & Ireland, comments: “Prior to 1999, Walkers used retired road-going tractors for shunting but they were much slower and more prone to mechanical failure. With a purpose-designed terminal tractor, the operation is much faster. The driver just walks out of the rear door to connect or disconnect the lines and he doesn’t have to wind the trailer legs up or down.
“The Kalmar units offer greater acceleration too as they have automatic gearboxes; the gearboxes and clutches of road-going tractor units are simply not designed for constant stop-start forward and reversing operations. We appreciate the way in which our Kalmars have contributed to our higher levels of productivity and efficiency.”
Arla Foods (Express Dairies) and Sheffield City Council have both placed orders for the Electric Mercury prototype Specialist Delivery Vehicle (SDV). Deliveries are expected in 2006. The E-Mercury vehicle, available from new trading company Modec, is designed specifically for urban and inner city use. CMP Batteries, of Bolton, has provided the battery for the vehicle which has a governed top speed of 50mph and a potential range of over 65 miles. The vehicle has a two-tonne payload capacity and a gross vehicle weight, including battery of 5.5 tonnes. CMP’s Advanced Lead Acid Gel battery incorporates a thermal management system to keep the power pack at its optimum operating temperature.