The world's first (and we presume only) test track exclusively for terminal tractors was opened by Kalmar in Ottawa, Kansas last summer. With terminal tractors having normal top speeds of about 40km/h the action 1.2km test track is hardly Formula One or Indycar.
However, what the track does enable the manufacturer to do is both to test every new tractor that rolls off the assembly of its plant in Ottawa as well as develop design improvements.
Reflecting the somewhat heavier vehicles it is designed to test the reinforced concrete track can accomodate loads of up 36.2 tonnes. It includes a cobblestone rumble strip and 15 per cent gradiant hill designed to mimic ro-ro vessels in port.
“A safe, quality product is our goal every day,” said Gina Lopez, vice president terminal tractors at Kalmar. “The test track helps us accomplish our goal both by putting trucks through the paces before shipment while also providing a designated area to test our product.”
The track also allow customers to test drive the company's tractors.
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