Kalmar Breaks Ground on Manufacturing Expansion

Kalmar, part of Cargotec, officially broke ground on an expansion project for the Kalmar Ottawa manufacturing plant in Kansas on 11 May 2016. Key improvements will include the refurbishment and expansion of the facilities to improve employee safety, security, efficiency and well-being.

Additionally, Kalmar will construct a test track for testing and on-site customer events. The Ottawa plant is focusing on the assembly of Kalmar Ottawa terminal tractors for the Americas region.

Dave Wood, vice president, sales, marketing and service, terminal tractors, Kalmar Americas, said: “This expansion reflects our commitment to long-term success at Kalmar Ottawa. We strive to improve our resources, processes and personnel, to maintain and grow our legacy as the dominant global manufacturer of terminal tractors. Perhaps just as important, it is a visual reminder of our commitment to the community where it all began more than 60 years ago.”

“Being able to safely test and demonstrate our trucks’ capabilities in a real-world environment was a key part of our expansion plan,” said Alan Wilson, director of operations. “The course gives us an on-site proving ground for the Kalmar Ottawa T2 terminal tractors. Operators will be able to practice turning, backing and manoeuvring the terminal tractor in a dedicated area, apart from manufacturing and staging areas.”

Kalmar celebrated with Olli Isotalo, president, Kalmar; Mika Vehviläinen, president and CEO, Cargotec; Alan Wilson, director, operations; Chris Booth, vice president, terminal tractors; and Dan Pettersson, senior vice president, mobile equipment, officially breaking ground at the site.

As the world’s leader in terminal tractors offering the most comprehensive range of models for warehouse and distribution operations, ports and rail terminals, Kalmar’s commitment to continuous product development has resulted in many industry firsts. Besides being the original manufacturer of terminal tractors, Kalmar Ottawa was the first to offer machines with an automatic transmission, a rear door entry, integral air conditioning units, power cab tilt and ABS brake systems.

Kalmar Ottawa terminal tractors were also the first on the market to receive DOT/EPA certification—a paramount classification for distribution and industrial customers whose operation entails shunting trailers between yards via public streets and roadways.