Shire, the aviation brand of Belgian engineering firm, Mertens Electrification & Control Systems (M-ECS), has launched ts first range of purpose-built electric tractors for baggage and cargo operations.
“With Shire, we bring our engineering DNA directly into aviation GSE,” said Toon Mertens, founder of M-ECS.
He explained that while retrofitting diesel tractors into electric is an essential short- and medium-term bridge, “purpose-built electric machines are the real path to long-term efficiency, safety and resilience” for the ground support sector. He also noted that frames and drivetrains designed for combustion do not deliver the efficiency or long-term adaptability of purpose-built electric engines.
Created in 2022, Shire’s first range of purpose-built electric tractors focuses on baggage and cargo tractors. These vehicles alone account for 25-50 per cent of ground handling emissions at airports, according to the company.
The tractors can be equipped with advanced options including: real-time tracking of energy use, performance and duty cycles, as well as predictive diagnostics to anticipate failures and minimise downtime. Modular upgrades that are currently under development include in-house developed collision detection and avoidance systems.
Shire’s portfolio of electric tractors includes a double-cabin (five seat) baggage tractor, a 4-tonne cargo tractor and a 6-tonne cargo tractor. The company also has a range of portable and static chargers.
Key features of its tractors include validated comparisons show 25-30 per cent savings versus diesel and 25-35 per cent versus other electric tractors, with 40-70 per cent lower €/kWh battery costs.
High-capacity liquid-cooled batteries (up to 140 kWh) ensure reliable performance from desert heat to freezing winters, with fast-charging capability in under one hour.
“Ground handling is a tough environment,” added Gerd van Damme, Sales Director at Shire. “If you don’t design equipment with the operator’s economic and practical reality in mind, the solutions will never last.”
