Product Review: Toyota Core Tow Tractor Automated Forklift

Your staff is wasted on mindless repetition, like shuffling pallets from one side of your facility to the other. If you want to prevent that waste and recover lost productivity, Toyota's Core Tow Tractor Automated Forklift might be the solution. These automated tow tractors are fully independent, easy to operate, and reliable. Read on to discover what we love about this forklift, what it's best suited for, and what to know before you invest.

Key Features

Here are the three features we love most about this automated tugger:

• Advanced Mapping Technology. Unlike many other automated guided vehicles (AGVs), the Toyota Core Tow Tractor Automated Forklift requires little to no additional infrastructure. Instead, your facility is mapped and uploaded to the tow truck. Then, the LIDAR-based natural features navigation system does the rest.
• No Subscription Fees. Many automated solutions require service or subscription fees to alter AGV routes, add units, or modify processes. However, the Core Tow Tractor does not. Your team receives training in the management software so you can make any modifications on your own, minimizing downtime and expense.
• Built for Safety. Forklift safety is serious business in any facility. The Core Tow Tractor’s sensor system constantly searches for obstructions. When it senses one, the tractor automatically slows and stops. When the obstruction clears, the AGV continues on its programmed route.

Best Suited For:

This automated tow tractor is best suited for operations seeking to automate the movement of palletized goods within their facility, such as in the general warehousing, distribution, cold storage, and food storage industries.

Not Recommended For:

This AGV is not recommended for facilities looking to automate lifting or stacking operations.

Specifications

Model Name: 8TB50A
Manufacturer: Toyota
Capacity: 10,000 lbs.
Length: 59.97 in.
Height: 48.81 - 53.34 in.
Width: 39.94 in.
Loaded Travel Speed: 4 mph
Navigation: Natural Features Navigation (LIDAR)
Fuel Type: Electric
Electric System: 24 V

Pros

Toyota packed a lot into this model, but here are some of our favorites.

Highly Maneuverable

The 8TB50A's advanced mapping system offers incredible control of this forklift's movement. As with all Toyota AGVs, the Core Tow Tractor has an accuracy tolerance of as little as half an inch while positioning and maneuvering payloads. This precision pairs with a tight turning radius to make a surprisingly nimble machine.

Manual Mode

Despite this AGV forklift's robust automated systems, a human touch is occasionally needed to complete a unique job. When this happens, an operator can easily switch the Core Tow Tractor to manual mode. In this mode, the forklift operates like a standard tow tractor with all the ergonomic comforts you would expect of a Toyota.

Easy & Comprehensive Service

Toyota backs all of their automated vehicles with Toyota 360 Support. This comprehensive service support guarantees 4-hour response times from a Toyota Certified Technician and access to Toyota's exclusive service app. Additionally, easy-access compartments make service and maintenance a snap, meaning your AGV forklift will be back up and running in no time.

Self-Charging Options

Toyota offers many excellent optional add-ons for the Core Tow Tractor Automated Forklift, including an automatic coupler tow hitch and a keyless on/off switch. However, the most impressive is the automatic charging option. With this option, the automated fork truck drives over the charging station. It connects with contacts in the floor, allowing the forklift to intelligently utilize opportunity charging between tasks.

Cons

There’s no such thing as a perfect machine. Here are a couple of things to consider before investing in the Toyota 8TB50A.

Upfront Investment

All automation involves an upfront investment, and the Toyota Core Tow Tractor Automated Forklift is no different. However, this system's modularity means you can invest in chunks, one unit at a time. Additionally, increased productivity and decreased labor expenses ensure rapid ROI.

No Vertical

The tow tractor has no mast. Consequently, it cannot stack or pick pallets above ground level. If you are looking for an AVG that can lift pallets up to 176 inches, you might consider the CB18 Automated Guided Forklift from Toyota and Bastian Solutions.

Find Your Perfect Automation Solution

Warehouse automation, like Toyota's Core Tow Tractor Automated Forklift, has the power to revolutionize your operation. This AGV forklift is a fantastic choice for any business looking to automate the movement of palletized goods throughout their facility. However, when it comes to automation, there is no one-size-fits-all solution. That's why expert help is vital to ensuring you find the perfect combination of technologies for your unique facility. Let us transform your warehouse. Contact us online or visit one of our locations to learn more about what warehouse automation can do for you:

Arkansas - Jonesboro
Alabama - Dothan, Irondale, Mobile, and Montgomery
Mississippi - Richland and Tupelo
Tennessee - Jackson and Memphis

Further Reading
Forklift Product Review: Linde H50 – H80 EVO
The Komatsu BX50 Forklift Product Review
Product Review: AICHI Vertical Mast Lift