BUSINESS UPDATE
It all begins with the chassis,
which is usually constructed
in house
Synthetic rollers on the bed
are of a special composition,
ensuring a long operating life
A closer look at the chassis reveals the
dark blue, specially shaped rollers that
facilitate the movement of the ULD. Janik
reveals that the material is a type of plastic
that is commonly used in protecting crane
cabling. Its suitability in the loader has
been proven over the years, needless to
say.
Deutz remains the favoured motive
power provider for the company’s loaders,
with the diesel engine still greatly in
demand, since it is responsible for both
the driving and the li ing functions.
In line with growing concerns over
safety on the ramp, any Trepel hi-li can
be kitted out with the company’s ACAS
sensor system; today, something over
60% of the output have this aid tted.
Standardisation, in line with IATA’s
desired requirements, is important to the
company, especially since here is GSE that
sees operators working above three metres
in height, which necessitates special
requirements.
Other options
In these environmentally conscious times,
it’s good to note that the company is
not solely focused on the production of
Whilst at Trepel there is much
automation evident, manual
skills are still necessary
VIEW FROM THE TOP
Former Sales Director Carsten
Schimkat stepped into the role of
MD in 2016, when the existing chief
executive retired. As he recalls, it was
a propitious moment in the company’s
history, for sales were buoyant and
growth readily apparent.
“There were some downswings,”
he admits, “but these were shortlived.
Electrifi cation of the range was
something that I have pushed forward,
both for tractors and loaders.”
His latest contribution to Trepel’s
fortunes takes the form of a towbarless
tractor: no big surprise, this, perhaps,
given his past experience in that
particular market sector. Schimkat has
also been responsible for updating and
introducing new IT solutions at the
factory.
diesel-powered hi-li s, for electric is also
available. Nearing nal production at the
factory at the time of the visit was the rst
14 tonne example that was destined for the
Chinese market. It has taken Trepel some
months to design this newcomer and Janik
states that in terms of performance, it is
on a par with its diesel-powered brother.
When put on the ramp, it should be able
to accommodate the maindeck loading
and unloading operations of a pair of
B747 aircra on a single charge. Janik adds
that it is not unusual for his customers to
From road to ramp has been
the fi rst step - but where
after that?
The Tauberbischofsheim
factory is also home to some
of Trepel’s growing tug range
actually supply their own battery when
specifying electric options: that way, the
construction process takes into account
the battery size and shape, making for
a more satisfactorily engineered end
product. Battery power doesn’t tend to
extend to the largest hi-li s, however, for
the currently available battery capacity
simply isn’t high enough to cope.
To end on a completely di erent note,
there is great anticipation at Trepel, as
work on the company’s rst towbarless
tractor nears completion: according to
Schimkat, this will be rolled out in early
2020. e TLTV Charger 380 will be
capable of towing a range of aircra , from
the Embraer 170 to the Airbus A340-600.
Two engine sizes will be o ered (309
kW or 231 kW) at Stage 5 compliance,
although Stage 3 options will also be
available for some regions; furthermore,
electric and hybrid versions are also on the
cards. Being able to pull 13 tonnes gives it
plenty of versatility and the company sees
this new tractor as ideal for intergate and
fast maintenance towing, in addition to
pushback duties.
So, is there room for another towbarless
tractor in the marketplace?
Trepel clearly believes so… ghi
32 February 2020 Ground Handling International