The first fully electric yard tractor is capable of 24-hour continuous operation, and it will be used at the Coles Truganina distribution centre, in Melbourne’s west. The ATM 38T Gaussin yard tractor from Nexport delivers zero emissions technology and supersedes models historically powered by diesel fuel.
The yard tractor features a Gaussin battery swap-out system that tackles the battery range challenges faced with traditional fixed battery systems. A drained power pack can be replaced with a fully charged battery in just a few minutes, eliminating vehicle downtime during charging. The batteries are recharged through 100% renewable electricity sourced from the distribution centre.
In addition to the sustainability benefits, the vehicle has improved safety features, including automatic speed reduction for better vehicle stability and handling.
“Toll was pleased to partner with Coles and Nexport to trial the zero-emissions yard tractor, which forms part of Toll’s broader sustainability strategy. Increasingly, our customers are looking to us to provide sustainable solutions. The trial of the electric yard tractor is part of Toll’s broader strategy to reduce emissions and deliver the same service with lower emissions. The company has made significant investments in energy-efficient facilities and fleet, including hydrogen, battery electric, and hybrid trucks vehicles. We have committed to achieving a 100% battery-electric forklift fleet by 2025. We continue investigating alternate energy opportunities to find operationally viable solutions to assist us on our journey to net zero,” says Nick Vrckovski, Executive General Manager Retail, Consumer & Automotive of Toll.
Toll continues working with innovators of emerging technologies to identify opportunities and test them in real-world operational environments. In October 2022, the company opened the Toll Innovation Centre in Singapore, a S$20m investment that brings together businesses, leading start-ups, and academia to foster collaboration and innovation in the supply chain.
Source: Toll Group
