Kalmar, part of Cargotec, has officially announced its latest development in automated container-handling solutions at TECH TOC in Singapore — an environmentally friendly electric automated guided vehicle (AGV).
The FastCharge AGV features a cutting-edge lithium-ion battery allowing the AGVs to be charged at charging stations along their route, eliminating the need for lengthy and time-consuming battery swapping.
The new batteries are easier and more cost-effective to maintain and operate compared to lead-acid batteries.
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The new AGV is also equipped with regenerative energy systems that stores energy created via breaking for later use.
With the ability to handle loads up to 70 tonnes, the FastCharge’s specially designed steel platform can handle up to two 20-foot containers, and one 40- or 45-foot container.
Image courtesy of Kalmar
Kalmar’s solution is fully compatible with the Navis N4 terminal operating system (TOS), and can also be integrated with other TOS through a series of open application interfaces.
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Vice President of Intelligent Horizontal Transportation at Kalmar, Mikko Mononen, said: “The Kalmar FastCharge AGV offers both greenfield and brownfield terminals an alternative solution to reduce the environmental impact of their operations while maximising equipment availability.
“It complements our existing offering for horizontal transportation and is based on our proven TLS automation platform, which includes AGV support for terminals using the Navis N4 TOS.
“Launching the Kalmar FastCharge AGV was the natural next step after the successful project with PSA Singapore, where we delivered a fleet of 18 customised electric AGVs at the end of June 2017.”