Big changes came to the line of Kalmar Truck a couple of years ago with the introduction of the Ottawa 4×2 off-highway terminal tractor; the result was a hydraulic hybrid with more fuel efficiency and cleaner operation. We’re not completely sold as problems have been reported, but it’s worth keeping an eye on.

Given the rise in the cost of diesel fuel, and a need to meet emission standards, engineers moved forward to develop the hybrid Kalmar’s. The parallel power system is unlike an electric hybrid: the Kalmar transfers the energy twice vs. four times with an electric hybrid.

Overall, the Kalmar hybrid design brings a new standard in operational efficiencies in the following areas:

IMPROVED COST-EFFECTIVENESS:  Efficiency begins in the yard where drivers operate their rigs in tight turns and a lot of stop-and-go in port facilities or distribution yards. At the core of the Kalmar’s fuel economy is the Hy-POWER hydraulic, hybrid drive that allows zero emissions and fuel savings when the engine isn’t running when the ‘inching function’ is in use.

NO DOWNTIME DUE TO RECHARGING:  The Kalmar hybrid operates without any need for a charging source because the ‘secondary power’ is coming f rom the hydraulic system that is put in use during the inching function.

EASE OF MAINTENANCE: It’s easy to access all the hydraulic hybrid mechanisms. What’s more, the maintenance schedule is not as demanding, plus it does not require a premium outlay to replacement the parts.

OTHER BENEFITS: The inching function allows for a smoother acceleration; driver fatigue can also be minimized with this feature as well as less stress and wear on the driveline.

Contact us to learn more about the Kalmar hybrid terminal, or visit our website. We offer a highly functional—and fuel efficient—line of yard tractors.