PATRICK Terminals and Kalmar have inked a deal for 12 new AutoStrad units, which are due for delivery during the second quarter of 2022.

Of the twelve new eighth-generation Kalmar AutoStrads, five will operate at Brisbane and seven at Sydney.

The machines are part of Patrick’s ongoing fleet renewal program and will join the existing fleet of more than 130 straddle carriers, replacing some of the older-generation AutoStrads in the fleet.

Patrick Terminals ordered a previous set of AutoStrads in June last year, and the machines were delivered during the first quarter of 2021.

Patrick CEO Michael Jovicic said, Patrick continues to invest in infrastructure and innovation to ensure the efficient operation of our terminals throughout Australia.

“The Kalmar AutoStrad is a critical piece of equipment for both our Brisbane and Sydney terminals,” he said.

“We have been pleased with the new generation of machines and look forward to the benefits that their improved performance, reliability and efficiency will bring to our operations.”

Kalmar vice-president, sales Asia-Pacific Daniel Ho said the new order would help Patrick enhance its automation system. “Safety has always been at the forefront of Patrick´s operations, and our AutoStrad solution has played an important role in helping them to maintain an excellent operational safety record,” he said.