Camso provides Solideal solution for TLD autonomous baggage tractor

Airport ground equipment specialist TLD has selected the Solideal AIR 561 as original equipment tyre for its new driverless baggage tractor TractEasy and its flagship Jet-16 baggage tractor. Both units have been supplied with Solideal AIR 561 full tyre and wheel assemblies since June 2019.

“We’re impressed with the dedication of Camso’s development team in designing not just a long-life solution, but one that tackles the specific challenges of ground support applications,” explains Yves Crespel, communication director at TLD. “With the Solideal AIR 561, we’re confident customers will be equipped with a performing solution that will lower their overall operating costs.”

According to Camso, its ability to provide a long-lasting tyre specifically designed for this ground support equipment application was a determining factor in this partnership. The Michelin-owned off-highway tyre specialist considers the Solideal AIR 561 the ideal solution to meet the baggage tractors’ unique set of requirements for versatility and manoeuvrability. These vehicles were previously equipped with block tread pattern tyres, which are poorly suited for their high-speed, long distances, and short-turning radius. The tyres wore unevenly, which led to recurring vibration issues. In the case of the Jet-16, this affects driver comfort and results in lower tyre life – all of which triggered TLD to investigate a more suitable and performing solution.

Tackling challenges linked to GSE applications

“We’re thrilled that Camso has been chosen as the tyre provider for TLD’s new autonomous and zero-emission electric baggage tractors,” says Richard Philippe, OEM Sales regional director – EMEA at Camso.

The Solideal AIR 561’s distinctive ribbed tread pattern minimises vibration due to uneven wear and reduces snaking, two important challenges when operating on airport grounds. It provides greater stability, ensuring increased operator comfort and tyre life. Its energy-efficient rubber compound also helps reduce wear and rolling resistance, while its unique “lug with sipes” design increases traction in low-grip conditions.

“As a driverless vehicle that operates in normal traffic, without infrastructure modification and in all weather conditions, the need for a GSE tyre that would excel in reliability, lifespan and versatility was critical. The field tests we conducted confirmed that Solideal AIR 561 was the right tyre for the application, not only for our new autonomous vehicle but also for our core product, the Jet-16,” adds Crespel.