EFM, Goldhofer Sign Agreement for Electric Tractors

In a celebratory ceremony at Goldhofer Aktiengesellschaft in Memmingen, a significant framework agreement was signed between Goldhofer and EFM GmbH. The contract covers the delivery of 14 state-of-the-art Goldhofer Phoenix electric aircraft tugs by 2028, which will usher in a new era in emission-free ground support at Munich Airport.

Goldhofer AG, based in Memmingen and with an impressive tradition in the manufacture of heavy-duty and special transport vehicles as well as ground support equipment, is known for its innovative solutions in the field of airport technology. With a strong focus on the development and construction of both conventional and towbarless aircraft tractors, aircraft recovery systems as well as baggage and cargo tractors, Goldhofer is setting new standards in ground support.

EFM GmbH, a specialist in the maneuvering, deicing and air conditioning of aircraft, has developed into a pioneer in the field of emission-free ground support since its foundation in 1992. With a team of over 150 operational employees, EFM carries out more than 200,000 maneuvers and up to 15,000 de-icing operations every year, always ensuring the highest standards of quality and environmental compatibility.

The official signing of the contract took place in the presence of Jörg Abel, managing director, Dr. Dirk Eichhorn, CFO, and Bernhard Stelzle, head of technology, representing EFM. On behalf of Goldhofer, Matthias Ruppel, chairman of the board, Stavros Hatziioannou, vice president of sales and service, and Peter Potthast, area sales manager, were present. The framework agreement represents the expansion of a long-standing, forward-looking partnership.

Abel said: “The renewed investment in Goldhofer vehicles marks another milestone for future-oriented ground handling at Munich Airport by EFM GmbH. As a pioneer in the field of emission-free ground support, our goal is to shape the future of ground support sustainably. The Phoenix electric tugs from Goldhofer are a valuable contribution to this project and will help us to realize our vision of a green future.”

Ruppel emphasized the importance of 14 towbarless aircraft tugs in Munich: "The cooperation with EFM GmbH underlines our position as a technology leader in the field of e-mobility. We are proud to make a decisive contribution to emission-free ground support with our Phoenix e-tugs and thus set the course for a sustainable future."

The Goldhofer Phoenix E is a technological masterpiece that has been delighting the industry for years. With various possible battery configurations and a powerful drive system, the Phoenix E has instant torque availability, which is essential for precise and efficient maneuvering of aircraft. The battery technology of the Phoenix E is designed for durability and high cycle stability, which means that the batteries retain a high capacity even after many charging cycles.

Goldhofer's own active thermal management system in the Phoenix E optimizes energy consumption and ensures maximum range, while at the same time energy is recovered during braking through recuperation. The Goldhofer Phoenix E is unique in terms of its efficiency and the reduction in operating costs. The Phoenix E is equipped with the LINK telemetry system, which enables continuous monitoring of the vehicle systems and facilitates preventive maintenance measures.

The robust construction of the Phoenix E ensures high reliability even under demanding conditions at the airport. With a unique and user-friendly user interface and its ergonomic design, the Phoenix E is not only technically advanced, but also extremely comfortable to use.