Pulling Ahead: How Electric Tugs (aka Tow Tractors) Are Transforming Industrial Operations
Industrial operations are evolving to become smarter and greener, thanks to the adoption of electric tugs. These compact powerhouses are reducing emissions, enhancing efficiency, and improving safety, especially in environments where diesel or LP Gas fumes are unacceptable.
Al Benish, Vice President of Sales at KIRKS, brings extensive experience in helping manufacturers select the ideal tug solutions, whether diesel or electric, to meet their specific needs. KIRKS is the exclusive distributor for Eagle tugs in industrial and transit operations nationwide.
We sat down with Al to get an update on how Eagle electric tugs are delivering value across an expanding range of industries.
Why Choose the Eagle Brand for Electric Tugs for Industrial Applications?
Eagle tugs are renowned globally for aviation applications. In the early 2000s, Al collaborated with Eagle engineers to customize tugs for industrial use. “Because we work closely with our customers, we understand their needs,” Al explained. “Over the years, Eagle’s engineers have been outstanding in partnering with us to design and build custom tugs for various applications.”
Are Electric Tugs Replacing Forklifts?
While forklifts remain essential for storing and stacking materials, they have limitations when it comes to moving heavy loads through a plant or warehouse. Tugs, on the other hand, can connect multiple carts, up to four, and transport larger quantities of material with a tight turning radius for easier maneuverability and improved operator safety.
For teams seeking to boost output without requiring additional personnel or floor space, this capability provides a significant advantage.
The Right Tool for the Job: Electric Tow Tractors are Ideal for Industrial Applications
For instance, the Electric RTT model is designed with the flexibility to sit or stand, catering to operators who frequently hop off and on throughout their shifts. These adaptable features are particularly appreciated in dynamic work environments.
The Eagle eTT-8X and the eTT-12X are 80-Volt All Wheel Drive, All Wheel Steer, with passenger seating and towing capacity from 115,000 – 171,000 pounds.
Electric models, such as the Eagle RTT-12, RTT-18, and STT-18, feature efficient 48V brushless motors and offer an optional Smart Charge battery upgrade. Built for endurance, they can operate up to 8-hour shifts at full load and support quick charging during breaks, lunch, or shift changes.
Al emphasized the importance of professional site surveys before recommending a model. “Every application is different,” he noted. “We’ve assisted small auto parts manufacturers and wineries transitioning to electric tugs for improved air quality. Even Conagra’s Brand plant made the switch, which is ideal for sanitized food production environments.”
When selecting a tug, capacity is the primary consideration. We assess the typical load, it will transport:
- Light-duty: loads below 12,000 lbs.
- Mid-level: loads from 18,000 to 50,000 lbs.
- Heavy-duty: loads from 50,000 to 171,000 lbs.
Other factors, in addition to load capacity, will significantly impact the recommended model, such as climate, ramps, and turn radius.
For detailed specifications, visit our Eagle Tug Product Listing Page or download individual spec sheets for each model below:
Industries Utilizing Electric Tugs
Al highlighted how more industries are embracing electric tugs. “You wouldn’t believe what these tugs can pull,” he said as he related stories of customers benefiting from adding electric tugs to their operations. Here are a few examples:
- GE Renewable in Florida utilizes the ETT-12 model to transport wind turbines through production, weighing 100,000 lbs. or more, a task that is impossible for traditional forklifts to safely perform.
- In Ohio, GE’s jet engine manufacturing plant utilizes electric tugs to transport 55,000-pound jet engine assemblies. The all-wheel drive and tight turn radius of Eagle tugs are essential in space-constrained environments.
- A major automotive manufacturer customer recently introduced electric tugs in its assembly plant. The company has seen a 30% increase in efficiency and a 40% reduction in workplace injuries related to material handling.
Electric tugs are making a significant impact across various industrial and manufacturing sectors, including:
- Boatyards
- Military applications
- Construction sites
- Food production facilities
- Lumber yards
- Chemical plants
- Wineries
- Manufacturing operations
- Warehousing & Shipping
Why Invest in Eagle Electric Tugs?
- Low Maintenance, High Performance: Eagle electric tugs are reliable and designed for minimal maintenance, with a 1-year or 2,000-hour preventative maintenance schedule. In contrast, diesel-powered models often require service every 300–500 hours.
- Safety First: Conducting thorough onsite assessments is crucial. For example, pulling 18,000 pounds on a ramp with a 10% grade will change the rated capacity to only 10,000 pounds, posing safety risks. Proper site surveys ensure operational conditions are fully considered, mitigating potential hazards.
- Battery Options: Our models are available with both Lithium-ion and Lead-Acid batteries. Additionally, electric tugs support opportunity charging, which allows operators to top off batteries during breaks.
- Ease of Operation: Operators can quickly learn how to use electric tugs, with most mastering basic controls within an hour. This ease of use helps facilities address personnel turnover and simplifies cross-training.
- Long-Term Value: While electric tugs may involve a higher upfront investment, their benefits quickly outweigh the initial cost. Savings in fuel, reduced downtime, lower maintenance expenses, and fewer workplace injuries translate into significant cost reductions over time. For many operations, the return on investment is realized within 12 to 18 months, making electric tugs a smart choice for sustainable growth.
The Future of Electric Tugs for Industry
Looking ahead, Al Benish remains optimistic: “As battery technology continues to advance and costs decrease, we expect electric tugs to become the standard across all industrial sectors within the next decade.”
Electric tugs are at the forefront of the industrial electrification trend, combining efficiency, sustainability, and safety. As more companies recognize these advantages, electric tugs will play an increasingly vital role in shaping the future of industrial operations.
Considering adding an Eagle electric tug to your operation? Submit the KIRKS Tug Inquiry, and a product specialist will contact you. Our team will then conduct a Custom Site Survey to recommend the Eagle Tug model that best meets your performance requirements. Contact us today!