From now on, the world's first aviation tanker built on the chassis of an electric Daimler Truck will operate at Stuttgart Airport. In this case, a 6×2 eEconic model truck tractor with a 6×2 wheel arrangement was supplied to the Skytanking service department.
It is paired with a tank semi-trailer with a capacity of 40,000 liters from Esterer. By the way, this is the first product for this manufacturer of specialized equipment for a fully electric tractor.
The powerful pump is installed on the tractor itself and, interestingly, is powered by the main batteries of the car. Its capacity is 1500 l/min, which allows you to refuel a regular charter jet in just 20 minutes. However, in reality this takes less time, since for safety reasons the aircraft's fuel tanks are never completely empty, nor are they fully filled.
Note that the Mercedes-Benz eEconic model is equipped with a low-mounted Direct Vision cabin. The large windshield with Thermocontrol heating function provides excellent visibility even in difficult weather conditions. And the low floor level makes it easier for operators to get on and off. The overall height of the road train does not exceed 2.8 m, which allows it to work directly under the aircraft wing, into which, as is known, the fuel tank is integrated.
The total weight of the fuel tanker as part of the Mercedes-Benz eEconic is 50 tons. The tractor is equipped with an electric axle with two electric motors developing a constant power of 330 kW. The battery capacity is enough for full operation throughout the day. The batteries can be recharged with direct current with a power of up to 160 kW. The recuperation system allows you to increase operating autonomy.
The new aviation tanker will help Stuttgart Airport achieve its goal of making aircraft operations climate neutral by 2030 and achieving zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2040.