The Goldhofer AG in Memmingen is developing the towbarless tractors AST-1 X 1200, AST-1 X800, and AST-1 X400 for the A380. By the conclusion of the contract with the aircraft manufacturer Airbus Deutschland GmbH, the Goldhofer AG has proved a new dimension of its problem-solution competence by delivering a towbarless tractor for the wide bodied aircraft. The AST-1 X is based on the well proven the AST-1 F. The concept of the six drive wheels so chosen does not only allow to use the drive components of the AST-1 F tractors, but also to considerably reduce the ground pressure. Also the neccessary static load is reduced and always provides sufficient tractive power, even under bad tarmac conditions. The driving dynamics with high speeds and heavy aircraft could be optimised too. It will be available in three versions, the main differences will be the engine performance and the cabin.
