2 electric Weidemanns, 13 giraffes and 4 elephants.

Two quiet and emission-free Weidemann loaders at the Knuthenborg safari park. 

The exotic animals at Knuthenborg Safari park at Lolland (Denmark) can rejoice: Two electrically powered 1160 eHoftrac Weidemanns have moved into the giraffe pen and the elephant stall. In the elephant enclosure, the machine removes the dung and puts branches and twigs into the enclosure. In the giraffe enclosure, the second Weidemann has the same job as with the elephants. However, this machine was equipped with narrower tires for better maneuverability.

The 13 giraffes and the four former circus elephants attract the attention of visitors. Of course, the safari park has more to offer: There are 700 animals in all living at the park and they can be admired by visitors.

Air for the elephant sand.

The Weidemann loader also takes care of aerating the sand in the over 2,000 m² elephant stall. About 1,000 m³ of it has to be aerated regularly to prevent it from compacting. A proper surface is especially important for the elephants' feet and for their well-being. “We also use the Weidemann to build small sand hills where the elephants like to rest”, explains Chief Zoologist Rasmus Nielsen. The two electrically powered 1160 eHoftracs have replaced a diesel-powered Weidemann. Actually, the only intention was for the Knuthenborg safari park to replace the old Weidemann Hoftrac 1250 with a noiseless and emission-free 1160 eHoftrac. But the decision was quickly made to buy two machines after talking to sales consultant Peter Røjkjær at Weidemann's importer and dealer Stemas A/S.

A better working environment for employees.

It's not only the elephants and giraffes that enjoy the e-loaders in the safari park. “In fact, the machines also improve the working environment for our employees, who get a much better indoor climate in both the giraffe enclosure and the elephant stall. At the same time, we have gained an additional advantage due to the lower noise level. In the past, it so often happened that employees did not hear our calls over the radio because the engine noise of the diesel-powered machine drowned out the calls. That doesn't happen anymore. Therefore, the soundless electric drive also means considerable improvement in our communication”, says Rasmus Nielsen.