SEPANG, Oct 16 (Bernama) -- Ground Team Red (GTR), the ground-handling joint venture between SATS Ltd (SATS) and AirAsia, is taking a significant step towards sustainability and innovation by trialling two Hangcha Aviation Tractor Model QSD320-XD3-MAI electric vehicle (EV) that have been leased into their ground handling operations. This transformative move underscores GTR's commitment to reducing its environmental footprint, enhancing efficiency, and embracing environmentally friendly practices.
 
The two new EV tractors will be tested at the Kuala Lumpur International Airport Terminal 2 (KLIA Terminal 2) as part of its long-term plans in reducing carbon emission by not being heavily dependent on the current fleet of diesel-powered tractors to run their operations, on top of optimising operational costs, and enhancing the overall airport experience to its growing list of airline and cargo customers.
 
Musdalifa Abdullah, CEO of Ground Team Red (GTR) said: “We are excited to introduce EVs to our operations at KLIA Terminal 2 following a successful trial run that began in August. This marks a major step forward in our commitment to sustainability and innovation in the aviation industry.
 
“Beyond our commitment to sustainability, today represents a strategic choice that we believe will yield significant operational savings for GTR. We anticipate that the energy efficiency and lower maintenance costs of EVs will not only reduce our environmental impact but also positively impact our bottom line."
 
GTR conducted a comprehensive first phase trial run of EV tractors at KLIA Terminal 2 starting in August until mid September this year with the T137-V3 Electric Baggage Tractor model. The successful implementation of the EV tractors during this trial period demonstrated the feasibility and benefits of transitioning to electric vehicles for ground handling services.

 
During the first trial, GTR noted that the EV tractors could power its ground-handling operations for seven hours on a single charge, and saved approximately 58% of their overall operational cost. The company anticipates expanding the fleet of EVs if data gathered from the current usage demonstrates more positive outcomes.
 
GTR plans to deploy EVs across various aspects of its operations, including baggage handling, transport, and maintenance services. This initiative represents a significant investment in both technology and sustainability, showcasing the company's dedication to providing the highest level of service while minimising its environmental impact.
 
The company remains dedicated to exploring additional sustainability initiatives as part of its ongoing commitment to environmental stewardship.

About GTR
Ground Team Red Sdn Bhd (GTR) is a joint venture between SATS Ltd (SATS) and AirAsia, and commenced operations on 1 November 2017. GTR aims to maintain the highest quality product by embracing technology (innovation and digitalisation) to improve the productivity of our personnel, enhancing service level, with a strong emphasis on maintaining high safety standards. GTR provides a comprehensive range of ground handling services such as; guest handling, baggage services, aircraft handling, cargo handling services and security services. Currently, GTR handles an average of 550 flights daily across 17 airports in Malaysia and Singapore.

SOURCE: Capital A Berhad
(formerly known as AirAsia Group Berhad)

FOR MORE INFORMATION, PLEASE CONTACT:
Name :  Alya Zulaikha
Tel : +60 11 6295 4695
Email : nuralyazulaikha@airasia.com / communications@airasia.com 

--BERNAMA