Gaussin signs record deal

The new ATT units, which offer operators a self-propelled and modular alternative to the traditional tractor trailer combination used for transporting containers in and around terminals, will be supplied to Turkish port and logistics operator, AKAN-SEL.

Volkan Akan, chairman and owner, AKAN-SEL, said the company’s main motivation for choosing the full electric ATT was “environmental issues, including zero carbon dioxide emissions and no noise for our drivers”.

The units will be fitted with Gaussin’s new four tonne Full Elec Power Pack, which has a predicted lifecycle of five to seven years.

Developed in association with French Alternative Energies and Atomic Energy Commission (CEA), the power pack is based on lithium-ion battery technology and can operate for up to 12 hours before recharging, a process that takes two hours.

Gaussin Manugistique says it costs just €2 per hour to run an ATT fitted with the Full Elec Power Pack. This ensures competitive operating costs compared to traditional diesel technology, and eliminates CO2 and particulate emissions.

“We are very glad to sign this MoU with Gaussin to help us achieve our energy and environmental goals,” Mr Akan added.

The first 20 units are expected to be delivered to AKAN-SEL in the second half of 2014, followed by another 20 during the first half of 2015. The ATT units will be deployed at several sites across Turkey.

In addition, Gaussin has signed a MoU with an undisclosed major port operator in Africa for another 50 ATT V4 units with Full Elec Power Pack, pending a six month trial with a demonstration unit between September 2013 and February 2014.