Kalmar Motor has secured the largest single order in the company’s history, marking another significant milestone in its continued growth. The announcement comes as the company prepares to showcase its latest electric towbarless tractor technology at GSE Expo Europe 2026 in Lisbon, 15–17 September.
The order comprises more than 40 towbarless aircraft pushback and towing tractors with a total value approaching SEK 280 million, making it by far the largest contract ever awarded to the Swedish manufacturer. The TBL tractors have been purchased by TCR and will operate at London Heathrow for a leading international airline.
The order follows several years of strong growth for the company. Since 2022, Kalmar Motor has more than doubled its business and today employs around 110 people. In the last fiscal year, the company reported revenue of just over SEK 400 million, making the new contract exceptional both in size and strategic importance.
“This is a landmark order for Kalmar Motor and a strong validation of our products, our organisation and the confidence customers place in us,” says Michael Jørgensen, VD, Kalmar Motor. “Large fleet replacements require extensive evaluation, planning and close collaboration, and we are proud to have been selected for this project.”
“We are delighted to be working with Kalmar on this strategic project. This long-term agreement demonstrates a shared commitment from Kalmar and TCR to deliver a reliable, sustainable and high-performing GSE solution for many years to come,” says Rob Hutchings, Managing Director, TCR UK & IE.
At GSE Expo Europe, Kalmar Motor and Vestergaard Company will also present some of the latest developments in the TBL range. On display will be the electric TBL190E, equipped with LiDAR-based anti-collision technology and now available with an optional electric Ground Power Unit (GPU), as well as the electric TBL100 featuring remote-control operation.
Designed for demanding pushback and maintenance towing applications, the TBL190 platform serves aircraft with take-off weights above 350 tonnes and is available in diesel, fully electric and electric range-extender configurations. The LiDAR-based anti-collision system provides additional support to the operator when manoeuvring close to the aircraft, while the optional electric GPU enables operators to combine additional electric functionality in one GSE platform.
The remote-controlled TBL100 represents another development in Kalmar Motor’s electric tractor range. Remote operation gives the operator greater flexibility in positioning during pushback and towing operations and provides an unobstructed view of the aircraft and surrounding area.
Production planning for the TCR order is already underway, with the first deliveries scheduled for early 2027. The order will be executed using the company’s existing production capacity, although future recruitment will depend on the development of additional projects.
Visitors to GSE Expo Europe can meet the Kalmar Motor and Vestergaard Company teams at stand I05 to see the TBL190E and TBL100 and learn more about the latest developments in towbarless pushback and towing technology.
