In the coming months, one of our converted pushback tractors will go to Spain. In cooperation with Aviaco GSE, new customers have been identified and convinced of the value proposition of conversion for their fleet. As a follow-up step, they will start using the demo pushback tractor to experience the performance and usability. After all, we do simply sell a pushback tractor that can perform 20 to 25 pushes on one battery charge. But users want to experience this innovative product beforehand. After all, electric operations is already exciting for many operators and equipment owners, as there is still the fear that there is not enough capacity to run the operation for an entire day.
However, the specifications, 20 to 25 pushes in one day and then also having enough capacity to drive 2 km back to the charger may be validated. But step 1 always remains convincing the user of the value proposition of conversion, telling about the advantages such as:
- It is more cost-effective.
- You can make use of your current fleet with the benefit of extending the life of your fleet.
- Lead times are better.
- As an organisation, you are future-proof because you are emission-free.
The 1st two points often lead to good and critical questions. Is it actually cost-effective? Namely, can I extend the life of my fleet if I replace the combustion engine for an electric powertrain? If not, is it still really that cost effective?
So ultimately the question is, what does the conversion mean for my equipment besides becoming emission-free?
The most maintenance-sensitive and economically depreciated parts are the existing transmission and/or torque converter and the internal combustion engine. These are replaced with an electric powertrain during conversion. The rear axles with an average lifespan of 25 – 30 years remain in place. If the vehicle is 10 years old, the user parts, such as mirrors, tyres, seats and steering wheel, will probably need replacement. But these refurbishment costs are minimal, let’s say, on average €2,250. That makes the refurbishment less than 3% of the difference between refurbishment and an ‘eventual available’ new purchase! In fact, the advantage of our delivery time has not even been discussed yet 😉!
