Goodyear is renowned for pioneering smart solutions for commercial vehicles and aircraft tire technology. The company is now bringing its innovative thinking to the vehicles that provide the link between ground and air travel: the airport tractors that maneuver aircraft into position.
When leading airport equipment manufacturer Trepel was developing its powerful Charger 380 tractor, it wanted to ensure it was optimized for long distance towing between terminals and remote positions. At busy airports, a tire issue or puncture on a towing tractor could bring operations to a standstill causing expensive gridlock on the ground and delays or re-routing in the sky. Therefore, Trepel turned to Goodyear Proactive Solutions to support them in preventing a potential issue before it even happens.
Bellavance David, research and development manager towbarless aircraft tractors said: “We developed the Charger 380 as the most advanced, high power and versatile tractor. Our customers prioritize the safety of passengers and want to reduce the time pressure and complexity in the daily operations. We worked with Goodyear to create a ‘plug and play’ solution. Our Charger 380 dashboard has hardwiring to enable Goodyear TPMS data integration. This connected Goodyear technology adds to our range of state-of-the-art electronics. Trepel has already included high levels of connectivity to provide precision when maneuvering and the addition of TPMS is a perfect complement to our own safety, logistics and operational electronic technology.
Goodyear’s well-proven heavy-duty version of its tire pressure monitoring system was integrated into Trepel's dashboard. This is a landmark industry-first for this application of the Goodyear TPMS system, which normally operates through an app or web platform. The TPMS sensor is built into the tire and will alert the driver immediately if the pressure and temperature deviates from the recommended operating levels. The sensor can be removed and reinstalled when the tire is changed.
Eric Ghirelli, product manager off-the-road EMEA, Goodyear Proactive Solutions said: “The Trepel Charger 380 is massively versatile, being able to haul large aircraft such as the Boeing 777 or Airbus A340-600. Its high torque and weight capacity bring additional challenges on the tire front. The required level of high load capability, coupled with the risk of wear on abrasive taxiways, mean that tire pressure is key. Especially, the inner tires are difficult to check visually, so the incorporated Goodyear TPMS gives added peace of mind to the driver and airport operations team.”
When integrated into the Trepel Charger 380 dashboard, Goodyear TPMS brings time savings during inspection routines, during operations and when planning maintenance.
One button on the dashboard will reveal tire pressure levels at one glance and prevent downtime by alerting the operator to potential issues before they arise. This frequent monitoring will extend the tire life as the correct tire pressure level promotes a more regular wear pattern.
The Trepel Charger 380 has the highest engine power on the market and can lift an incredible 41 tonnes. Aircraft manufacturers insist on the highest safety requirements for approved towing vehicles and airport operators can issue severe penalties for delays caused by operational issues. This collaboration on TPMS is a step forward in safety, operational efficiency and airport fleet management.
