Mediates energy-dependent uptake of cobalt ions into the cell. Can also transport nickel ions, but cobalt is the preferred substrate. Cobalt uptake is inhibited by uncouplers (CCCP and 3,5-di-tert-butyl-4-hydroxybenzylidenemalononitrile) and by the addition of excess nickel. Belongs to the NiCoT transporter (TC 2.A.52) family.