Schiphol Airport, in Amsterdam (Netherlands), has begun using the world's first operational electric 'taxibot' this May, a tow vehicle capable of moving aircraft from the gate to the runway at speeds of up to 42 km/h, according to a statement.
Developed by Smart Airport Systems, this 'taxibot' is being used in cooperation with easyJet, Airbus, and Menzies Aviation on the Polderbaan runway of the Dutch aerodrome, with a potential fuel consumption reduction of up to 65%.
"With the implementation of the 'taxibot', we are taking another practical step towards reducing emissions and noise on the apron. In this way, we are creating a healthier and cleaner working environment, and an increasingly sustainable and modern airport, prepared for the future," emphasized the director of personnel and transformation at Royal Schiphol Group, Esmé Valk.
This new electric 'taxibot' is in addition to the two hybrid models that have been towing KLM's Boeing 737 aircraft to the Polderbaan runway since 2022.
The incorporation of three more electric tow vehicles is planned for the end of this year, which will make it possible to extend this technology to more aircraft classes. Schiphol is advancing in the certification of Embraer aircraft together with KLM Cityhopper and other companies, while Transavia will soon join with its fleet of Boeing 737s.