Kalmar and APM Terminals partner on Kalmar One automation platform

Kalmar and APM Terminals have announced a strategic partnership to support the development and deployment of next-generation terminal technology. The two companies said that the partnership covers “joint software development and deployment and product roadmap alignment.”

Under the agreement, APM Terminals will work with Kalmar to co-develop the Kalmar One solution, a standalone fleet management system for all automated equipment types. “APM Terminals will gain access to the Kalmar One source code, working alongside Kalmar counterparts to develop the solution,” the terminal operator said.

In addition, APM Terminals will work with Kalmar to integrate its operational expertise into the Kalmar One automation system, helping shape the platform to meet the evolving requirements of automated terminals. The two companies also plan to work together on deploying “the software to existing and prospective terminals.”

“A key component of this partnership is the shared value it creates for both organisations through the development of an Automation as a Service-approach,” a joint press release said.

APM Terminals currently deploys Kalmar One at its Pier 400 terminal in Los Angeles, California, the largest container terminal in the Western Hemisphere.

“Kalmar One is not replacing the functionality of TOS systems, but it interfaces with TOS and has the functionality to dispatch the work orders (planned by TOS) to automated equipment. Kalmar One is choosing the best equipment to execute each work order. It is also capable of reacting to different exceptions during the execution,”  Timo Alho, Director Product Management Automation Business Line at Kalmar, said in a recent interview with WorldCargo News.

An industry first

“This partnership with Kalmar reflects our commitment to shaping the next generation of terminal technology through closer collaboration. By combining Kalmar’s equipment and software capabilities with APM Terminals’ operational and technology expertise, we are able to co-develop integrated automation solutions that are safer, more transparent, adaptable and aligned with real operational needs. This collaboration allows us to bundle technology and know-how in a way that strengthens performance and enables growth, while setting a new standard for partnership in the industry,” said Hans Jacobs, Head of Operational Technology & Analytics, APM Terminals.

“This collaboration represents an industry first and a major milestone in the development of terminal automation. Through the partnership, APM Terminals can further reduce complexity and enhance efficiency via a common platform across its automated terminals,” said Juuso Kanner, Vice President, Automation, Kalmar. “Furthermore, all customers who have or will have deployed Kalmar One will benefit from the enhancements developed through this collaboration and APM Terminals’ considerable expertise in terminal operations.”