Kalmar Prioritizes Safety with Innovative Collision Warning System for Straddle Carrier Fleet

Kalmar Straddle Carriers in operation at Maher Terminals Port Elizabeth New Jersey USA

(IN BRIEF) Kalmar, a subsidiary of Cargotec, is introducing a collision warning system for its manually operated straddle carrier portfolio. The system, available as an optional add-on for new machines and as a retrofit upgrade for existing ones, enhances safety by providing visible and audible warnings to drivers in the event of a collision risk. It helps prevent accidents, reduces stress on operators, and improves overall alertness. The system also detects low spreader positions when approaching container stacks. By reducing collisions, terminal operators can achieve cost savings through decreased repairs, extended equipment lifespan, and potentially lower insurance premiums. Kalmar’s commitment to safety-first design is evident in this new innovation.

(PRESS RELEASE) HELSINKI, 1-Jun-2023 — /EuropaWire/ — Cargotec Corporation (HEL: CGCBV), a Finnish company that makes cargo-handling machinery for ships, ports, terminals and local distribution, announces that its subsidiary Kalmar, is prioritizing safety with the introduction of a collision warning system for its manually operated straddle carrier range. This system, available as an optional add-on for new machines and a retrofit upgrade for existing ones, reflects the company’s commitment to safety-first design principles. By providing visible and audible warnings to operators when there is a potential collision risk, the system enhances safety measures and allows drivers more time to respond to potential hazards.

The collision warning system not only helps prevent or minimize the severity of collisions but also contributes to reducing driver stress by promoting continuous alertness and attentiveness. Beyond detecting obstacles in the straddle carrier’s path or blind spots, the system also alerts the driver if the spreader—whether empty or laden—is positioned too low while approaching a container stack. It is important to note that the driver maintains full control of the machine throughout the operation.

Implementing this collision warning system can yield significant cost savings for terminal operators. By mitigating the risk of collisions, they can benefit from reduced unplanned repairs, extended equipment lifespan, and potentially lower insurance premiums. Kalmar’s latest safety-focused innovation underlines its ongoing dedication to improving operational efficiency and safeguarding personnel and assets in the terminal industry.

Jeroka Alanko, Senior Manager, Product Management, Kalmar: “Safety is one of the core design principles at Kalmar, and we are constantly striving to introduce new features and functionalities that will enable our customers to increase their operational safety. The collision warning system will help our customers to make machine operation safer and improve overall terminal safety as well as reduce repair costs and extend equipment lifetime.

Further information for the press:

Timo Alho, Director, Product Management, Kalmar, timo.alho@kalmarglobal.com

Maija Eklöf, Vice President, Marketing and Communications, Kalmar, tel. +358 20 777 4096, maija.eklof@kalmarglobal.com

Kalmar is the global leader in sustainable cargo handling for ports, terminals, distribution centres and heavy industry. With our extensive electric portfolio and global service network, we help our customers move towards safer, more eco-efficient and productive operations. Together, we develop innovative solutions that shape the future of our industry, improving our customers’ every move. www.kalmarglobal.com

Kalmar is part of Cargotec. Cargotec’s (Nasdaq Helsinki: CGCBV) sales in 2022 totalled approximately EUR 4 billion and it employs around 11,500 people. www.cargotec.com

SOURCE: CARGOTEC CORPORATION