Kalmar sees ‘promising’ AGV market

Speaking at the launch of its FastCharge AGV at TOC Asia, Kalmar said that this positive outlook is predicated on sales of new units and renewals as well.

While Kalmar developed an early AGV back in 2007, it stalled further development while it focused on its autostrad concept. Now, having returned its attention to the AGV market, it has launched a lift-on, lift-off all-electric AGV with an optimised chassis, improved safety and serviceability and a power system that optimises performance. Its standalone charging station is housed in a 20-foot container and can deliver an eight hour fast charge.

“The charging station can easily be integrated to existing terminal infrastructure,” said Kalmar at the launch. “It can charge third party units and our AGV can also be charged by third party units.”

Questioned on the total cost of ownership, Kalmar responded that the AGV price is 60%-70% of a straddle carrier. While an operator would need twice as many AGVs to service the same moves, lower maintenance costs on the AGVs offset the additional capex.

The Kalmar FastCharge AGV is constructed on an optimised steel platform that can carry one or two 20 foot containers, one 40 or one 45-foot container and handle loads of up to 70 tonnes. It features an eco-efficient electric power system that uses the latest in Lithium-ion battery technology and delivers zero emissions at source. The FastCharge technology means that there is no need to swap batteries as machines can be opportunity charged at charging stations along their working routes. Recharging takes just a few minutes.