Munich Airport currently operates a fleet of 280 electric vehicles – mostly specialized equipment such as baggage tractors, lifts and passenger boarding bridges. In the future, however, the airport plans to make electric vehicles part of its fleet of passenger cars, too. Over the coming three years, millions will be invested in e-mobility, with 121 gasoline or diesel-powered vehicles slated for replacement through electric models. By 2030 the airport plans for its fleet to consist almost entirely of electric vehicles. At the same time, efforts are continuing to expand the necessary infrastructure of charging stations.
Dominik Mast, an automotive electrician in Munich Airport's vehicle workshop, is busy with his colleagues ensuring a smooth transition of the vehicle fleet to electric drive technology. When one of the new electric cars arrives in the airport's workshop, special precautions are needed: The electricians wear protective gloves, and a sign warns that parts of the vehicle are under high voltage.
In the case of the Smart car Dominik Mast is now working on, for example, the battery can deliver up to 400 volts. The car is here to be fitted with front strobe lights, a red warning beacon and a new hands-free communication set to prepare it for use on the airport ramp.