Kalmar to introduce fast charging for electric terminal vehicles
Kalmar, part of Cargotec, announced the forthcoming introduction of an industry-first fast charging solution for electric-powered shuttle and straddle carriers. The Kalmar FastCharge™ solution is locally emission-free and suitable for automated and manual operations.
Kalmar, a division of Cargotec, announced on December 2, 2015, its plan to introduce a new fast charging solution for its electric-powered shuttle and straddle carriers.
The Kalmar FastCharge™ system utilizes opportunity charging technology, similar to that used in electric buses. The charging station, equipped with a pantograph DC charging system, can be flexibly positioned along the machines' operational routes within terminals. The carriers are fitted with modern Lithium-ion (Li-ion) batteries designed for rapid charging.
Charging occurs during idle periods in the machinery's work cycle, such as when waiting for a container. Typical charging times range from 30 to 180 seconds, with a full charge achievable in minutes using a maximum charging power of 600 kW. The system is designed for local zero emissions and is compatible with both automated and manual vehicle operations.
Kalmar noted that customers have been requesting electric shuttle operations for some time. This technology aims to streamline the charging process, eliminating the need for battery swapping or the associated investment in swapping stations and spare batteries. The company has been testing and verifying the solution at its Technology and Competence Centre in Tampere, Finland, with a market launch planned for 2016.