The first unit was delivered to Lufthansa LEOS in December, operating at Frankfurt Airport, generating operational data and providing insights about its suitability for everyday use.
It has been working up to 10 hours a day, handling up to 20 tows without any loss of power thanks to its IonMaster technology used by Goldhofer, an electric drive concept with 700V lithium-ion batteries from Akasol.
The Thermal Management System maintains a constant battery temperature between 15-40C for up to 25% more range and longer battery life.
Dedicated charging infrastructure developed and installed by ABB allows for fast and opportunity charging so that the vehicles can complete their working days without the loss of power.
Peter Unger, CEO of Lufthansa LEOS said: “The data available show that we can perform more tows than assumed in the simulations. Our expectations have been exceeded by far, and we are planning to acquire another Phoenix E at the end of the year.”
Staff have embraced the Phoenix E, Unger said: "Not only the drivers but also the mechanics in the hangar, for example, are excited about this vehicle. The results to date indicate savings in excess of what we had expected and planned."
The flagship Phoenix E has a top speed of 25km/h and can handle aircraft up to Airbus A350 and Boeing 777 size, 80% of aircraft movements in Frankfurt.
It has a battery capacity of 66-165kWh depending on operational requirements, and a hybrid version with a range extender powertrain is also available.
