California airport sparks online frenzy with peculiar hardware auction

Oakland International Airport in California has put more than a dozen small electric baggage tractors up for government auction, sparking an online frenzy. Listings price the vehicles at about $750 each, giving bargain hunters a chance to buy the pint-sized tugs normally used to move luggage and cargo around runways. Social media users have been trading jokes and fantasies about cruising neighborhoods in the unusual rides, with some noting that they are far too slow for long-distance trips. Typical baggage tug speeds range from 4 to 15 mph, depending on the model and whether they’re electric or gas-powered. The airport did not offer detailed comment, but the sales appear tied to routine fleet retirement. Other auctions reported include a diesel cargo loader in Indiana for $4,500 and baggage tractors in Boise for about $500 apiece.