New yard tractor entering market
Balqon Corp., a developer of electric drive system technologies for commercial electric vehicles, has unveiled a battery-powered all-electric yard tractor that incorporates the company's electric vehicle drive system.
The system encompasses complete power management, propulsion and power conversation systems, and includes drive trains and energy systems (i.e., batteries and a charging system). The new product also incorporates a European chassis developed by Mol Transport Solutions, a manufacturer of trucks, trailers and waste management systems in Europe. It features an ergonomic cabin design and air bag suspension.
In its announcement, Balqon Corp. said it believes that the operating costs of the European yard tractor will be 74% lower than the operating costs of its conventional diesel competitors, making the European yard tractor a cost-effective alternative in warehouse and marine port applications in Europe, especially in light of current average diesel fuel prices in Europe of approximately $7 per gallon.
"High fuel costs and environmental laws that are favorable to clean energy make Europe an attractive market for Balqon Corporation's heavy-duty electric vehicles and drive systems," said Balwinder Samra, president and CEO of Balqon Corp.
"The product, which Balqon Corporation jointly developed with MOL Transportation Solutions, a strategic partner based in Europe, is the first in the zero emissions heavy-duty tractor market in Europe. It marks what we believe to be the beginning of a shift to zero emissions container movement vehicles in the continent."
The European yard tractor can tow loads over 30 tons with a range of more than 16 hours of operation on a single charge. The vehicle also demonstrates below 69 db in noise level and incorporates the latest idle-shut off technologies that increase energy conservation during vehicle idling. The new vehicle incorporates Balqon Corp.’s proprietary battery management system and charging systems that are compliant with current European safety standards.