Electric Tow Tractor vs Electric Tugger: Which to buy - MasterMover

Choosing between electric tugs & electric towing tractors

The market for material handling equipment includes a wide range of products, machines, and systems, which can make finding the right solution difficult – especially when manufacturers push solutions not designed for the intended application.

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Understanding the different options on the market is critical to making the right decisions for your business. Even though we specialize in manufacturing best-in-class electric tugs, we want you to select the right material handling solution for you – whether that’s an electric tugger, an electric towing tractor or something like a forklift truck.

In this blog we'll cover a comprehensive comparison of the following:

1. What are towing tractors?
2. Different types of tow tractor
3. Typical applications of towing tractors
4. Benefits of an electric towing tractor
5. What are electric tugs?
6. Different types of electric tugs
7. Typical applications of electric tugs
8. Benefits of electric tugs
9. Pedestrian electric tugs vs tow tractors – Pros & Cons

Typical applications of an electric tow tractor

Towing tractors are often found in logistics, distribution and manufacturing environments.

They’re most commonly used for towing multiple loads or trains on a "milk run" over long distances. Milk runs are a route where a driver picks up and delivers multiple loads to different locations, often using a tow tractor.

Other applications where you’ll find more heavy-duty towing tractors include the large machines used to tow heavy baggage carts at airports.

Benefits of electric tow tractors

Electric tow tractors have been around for over three decades, during which time, factories, depots and warehouses have relied on them to mobilize tow trains and tow carts in milk-run transfers. Here are some of the key benefits of a tow tug tractor: 

•    Can travel over long distances, often at speed 
•    Remove manual handling 
•    Increase efficiency 
•    Flexible delivery of goods and items 
•    Move multiple loads at one time 

Typical applications of electric tuggers 

Electric tugs are used in various environments, from industrial manufacturing to biopharmaceutical processing. Often, they’re used to remove manual handling in the movement of heavy loads or reduce reliance on traditional handling equipment such as forklift trucks or overhead cranes. Within manufacturing environments, electric tugs are often used to transport parts to the production line, mobilize heavy sub-assemblies or precisely position loads. 

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Tow tractors are versatile vehicles designed for efficiently moving heavy loads over short distances. They boast a load capacity range from 660 to 70,000 lbs, making them suitable for various industrial applications. Tow tractors enhance productivity by streamlining material handling tasks. Popular brands include Toyota, Hyster, and Taylor.

Tow Tractor Specifications

Load Capacity 660-70,000 lbs Max. Lift Height 10-10 in. Power Type Electric, Diesel / LPG / Gasoline Turning Radius 51-130 in. Operator Position Seated, Stand-Up, Walkie Tire Type Rubber / Polyurethane, Pneumatic, Cushion

Popular Tow Tractor Models in USA

Top tow tractors in USA are Toyota 8TB50, Toyota CBT6, Toyota CBTY4. Each model has unique features, load capacity, specifications and are used across variety of applications including airport, warehouse operations.

Below is the list of popular tow tractors in USA.

Model Name Load capacity (lb.) Toyota 8TB50 10,000 lb. Toyota CBT6 13,000 lb. Toyota CBTY4 8,800 lb. Hyster T5ZAC 5,500 lb. Hyster T7ZAC 15,000 lb. Unicarriers TGX20B 10,000 lb. Hyundai 66TT 6,600 lb. Hyundai 110TT 11,000 lb. Toyota 3TE25 - lb. Toyota CBT4 - lb.

Popular Tow Tractor Series

Toyota Core Tow Tractor:

The Core Tow Tractor is designed for efficient horizontal material transport. It features an AC drive motor and regenerative plugging for enhanced productivity and easy maintenance.

• 10,000 lb towing capacity for flat surface operations
• AC drive motor enhances efficiency and reduces maintenance needs
• Quick-release tow hitch allows effortless cart release
• Automated guided vehicle allows automated & manual towing

Toyota Mid Tow Tractor:

The Mid Tow Tractor is designed for efficient towing with advanced ergonomics, and versatile hitch options for diverse material handling needs.

• 8,800 - 13,200 lbs towing capacity
• 8.4 - 11.2 mph travel speed under no load
• Regenerative braking for energy efficiency
• Available in Stand-Up & Sit-Down Models

Toyota Large Tow Tractor:

The Large Tow Tractor with its towing capacity, durably built, and safety features is ideal for getting around flights, baggage rooms, etc..

• Handles up to 60,000 lbs for heavy-duty applications
• Safety features include automatic braking & speed control
• Travel speed of up to 17.5 MPH without a load
• Clean 80-volt alternating current power

Hyster T5-ZAC:

The T5-ZAC Forklift offers precision, power, and reliability, perfect for various demanding applications.

• 5,000 lb. Lifting Capacity
• AC Traction and Hydraulic Motors for enhanced performance
• ZAC Digital Control System for precise handling
• Comfortable Operator Compartment for reduced fatigue

Unicarriers Tow Tractor 10,000 lb. rolling load capacity:

These electric tow tractors offer a 10,000 lb. rolling load capacity, ideal for confined spaces with advanced AC motor technology for consistent high performance.