Toyota Material Handling 2TE18 model electric-powered towing tractor

The 2TE18 model electric-powered towing tractor is a forward-control 1.8 tonne draw-bar pull that is claimed to consume one-fifth the energy usage cost of a comparable diesel-powered tractor, while its greenhouse gas impact is half that of a diesel equivalent.

The tractor has potential applications with airlines, courier companies and indoor manufacturing and processing plants. It uses inverter and AC motor technologies and recovers energy when braking, coasting and changing direction (switchback mode) by regenerative braking, thereby reducing operating costs and its environmental impact. It also offers OHS benefits compared with diesel tractors because of its simplified power train that reduces maintenance.

The tractors are available in two models - with 1.5 or 1.8 tonne payloads - both with 80 V/445 Ah batteries or optional high-capacity 600 Ah batteries. The 1.8 tonne 2TE18 model has a 16.6 kW motor and 25,000 kg maximum towed weight and the 2TE-15 has an 11.8 kW motor and 20,000 kg towed weight.

Both models are 3615 mm long, with a turning radius (outside) of 3295 mm.

A driver’s suspension seat, battery charger interface box and rear-mounted inching controls and battery charger interface with lock-out systems are available.

The inching control provides a variable time pulse so the operator can align the machine with the haulage pin - allowing for one-person operation when attaching the trailers.