Electric vehicles have been gaining popularity since they first hit the market a decade ago. Statistics indicate that more than 600,000 EVs were sold in 2021, which was double that of 2020 sales. The EV movement is rapidly progressing, which will lead to new forms of vehicles becoming fully electric just like cars. One example is the electric yard tractor, an important addition to commercial fleets. Yard tractors are used to move cargo at distribution centers, terminals, and industrial facilities.
What is a Yard Tractor?
Also referred to as a terminal tractor, shunt truck, spotter truck, spotting tractor, yard truck, yard shifter, and yard dog, yard tractors offer an ideal solution for transporting goods within warehouse grounds or short distances. Different models feature off-road capabilities or certification for public road use to help meet those intermodal requirements.
Compared to a traditional truck, the yard tractor improves efficiency and productivity. It offers the necessary industrial strength, as well as enhanced ergonomic features for the operator, and easily accessible maintenance points. Moreover, since one of the main uses of yard tractors is moving trailers from point A to B on facility grounds, they, such as the Kalmar Ottawa T2 Terminal Tractor, are designed with fast and easy fifth wheel lifting and lowering to further speed up trailer handling.
Besides the versatility of a yard tractor, the electric version is a great way to help fleets transition towards more climate-friendly solutions in order to accommodate the increasingly strict vehicle emission mandates.
In essence, the electric yard tractor could be considered to be at the forefront of the future of trucking. After all, what better way is there to get your fleet on the path of EVS than to begin utilizing a functional, heavy-duty piece of equipment? Especially one that will help you learn the ins and outs of how electric equipment operates and what is required for charging, maintenance, and upkeep. Plus, because these units typically remain on company grounds, no one will be left stranded without access to a charging station in the event you forget before charging becomes a habit.
Why the Electric Yard Tractor Should Be Added to Your Fleet
For fleet owners still on the fence about electric vehicles, check out the key points discussed by North American Council for Freight Efficiency (NACFE) at the recent American Trucking Association’s Technology & Maintenance Council meeting.
Electric Yard Tractors:
- “Best way to learn about BEVs.”
- Offer “more uptime and simplify operations.”
- Safe to use indoors and outdoors.
- First step towards sustainability.
- Battery maintenance costs have decreased by approximately 60% since 2017.
Choosing a Yard Tractor
While there are many options to choose from, Kalmar Ottawa is the global leader, producing more than twice the volume of its competitors combined. Plus, you can trust the quality of production since Kalmar is an age-old name in the industry. The brand created the original terminal tractor in 1958, so needless to say, they are industry experts. Kalmar offers several models of terminal tractors including their new electric model, one of which is sure to accommodate your business needs.
T2
This model is designed to be highly efficient and easy to maintain, with a fast-charging, long-lasting battery system to ensure you’ll experience less downtime. And, because it is battery operated versus transmission, the driveline is simplified, making it easier to service. Plus, there’s no concern of CO2 emissions or noxious fumes, and with minimal noise, it is safe to operate inside the warehouse or out on the grounds.
T2 4×2 DOT/EPA
Whether traveling between warehouses or making short runs via public roads, the 4×2 DOT/EPA is certified for public road use. Equipped to handle heavy loads along with maneuverability, its fifth-wheel lifting and lowering features are sure to make moving trailers faster and easier. The cab is ergonomically designed and boasts many creature comforts so you can get the job done, regardless of the weather.
4×2 Off-Road
Designed to bring order, control and efficiency to your trailer handling, the Off Road Tractor is perfect for warehousing and distribution centers, light industrial, container and intermodal handling. Whether clean or dirty, urban or remote, the Kalmar Ottawa off road T2 models are ready for whatever job you can imagine.
T2E+ Electric
Kalmar Ottawa’s Electric Terminal Tractor is clean, green and highly efficient. They produce less noise, fumes and emissions, making them safer and healthier for your drivers to operate and ideal for use indoors or out. With less moving parts and an intuitive diagnostics system, servicing will take less time, cost less and help to improve your machine uptime. Isn’t it time you joined the electric revolution?
TCI is an Authorized Kalmar Distributor
These are just a few examples of what Kalmar Ottawa has to offer in the form of electric yard tractors. The best way to figure out which electric yard tractor is best for you is to get in touch with an authorized dealer like TCI Transportation.
TCI is an official Kalmar distributor, and the only one in the state of Arizona. Plus, we’ve been in the industry for over 40 years. So, if you have questions about expanding your fleet, get in touch today. Our friendly team is standing by to help!
