Press Releases 2004
Press Releases 2004
March 2004 - New electric tow tractors NEW RANGE OF TOYOTA ELECTRIC TOW TRACTORS
Toyota has launched a new range of electric tow tractors to add to the existing engine model tow tractors. The new electric range has been designed to answer a need in factories and warehouses for an effective handling solution where loads are continuously moved over long distances. Toyota is launching 3 electric models: a 4 tonne stand-on, a 4 tonne sit-on and a 6 tonne sit-on.
Tow tractors have their specific task in the logistics process
In many cases using a conventional lift truck / pallet truck can limit productivity in operations where there is a need to transport products on a repetitive basis over long distances. These types of trucks are normally limited to move only one or two pallets or loads at a time.
As a rule whenever loads are moved over 100m on a frequent basis, then there is a good economic case for using tow tractors that pull trailers laden with the pallet and /or loads.
The economic case can be made for the use of tow tractors in the workplace as they can reduce the amount of operators and trucks needed to move goods horizontally, and costs associated. They also positively impact on increasing productivity in the workplace as loads are moved with more efficiency. And finally safety is increased as there is less material handling equipment moving in and around the workplace.
Growing demand for towing tractors
David Backx - Product Specialist for Tow Tractors in Toyota Industrial Equipment Europe - acknowledges the above application of tow tractors saying:
"We are witnessing a growth in demand for towing solutions in factories using principles of Just In Time Supply - these customers are using tow tractors for frequent picking and transporting of product from stock for production line-side replenishment. In addition we recognise that there is a broader customer application of our towing products that can be used in docks, railway stations and airport"
David adds: "Depending on distances travelled, intensity of towing in a working shift and frequency of getting on and off the truck, we have stand-on and sit-on versions of the electric towing trucks. This ensures we can correctly specify the most productive and ergonomic solution for the towing application we come across".
The Toyota Electric Range
With 4 tonne stand-on versions and 4 and 6 tonne sit-on versions of its electric tow tractors, Toyota has a core range to satisfy most indoor requirements.
Both the stand-on and sit-on tow tractors have been designed with low step in height and a clear and open area for operators to ensure the trucks are easy to get on and off.
The tow tractors are equipped with pneumatic tyres to take the punishment of poor floors and outside work in yards, when there is a requirement for transferring from one building to another, away. This reduces stress on truck componentry and the operator when driving the truck.
The tow tractors have variable speed control for acceleration / deceleration and top speed to ensure the loads are handled in a safe and efficient manner according to customer requirements. " Switchback" - when going from forward to reverse, or vice versa - is smooth and controlled to ensure minimum stress to the truck, operator and load.
The range is completed with many customer specific options to ensure fit to operational needs. Roll on / roll off battery changeover ensures easy battery exchange for working in multi-shift operations. Working lights / brake lights and turn signal lights allow for increased safety in dimly lit working areas. Optional document holders provide space to keep worksheets and picking slips.
As with all Toyota Electric trucks reliability, safety, productivity and economy of the range is assured.