EUROGATE has secured an €82 million loan from KfW IPEX-Bank to develop and test automated container handling systems at its Wilhelmshaven terminal in Germany.
The financing will support a pilot project focused on digital technology, autonomous vehicles and terminal automation. EUROGATE aims to improve container handling efficiency, reduce operating costs and lower fuel consumption.
The project could also support future automation plans at other German EUROGATE terminals.
Testing automated container handling
As part of the project, autonomous terminal trucks (ATTs) will transport containers between the quay and automated stacking cranes (ASCs).
EUROGATE will also develop its own terminal management software to support automated operations. The company plans to test the technology under operating conditions before deciding whether to introduce it at other locations.
The project also includes the electrification of container handling equipment. This is expected to reduce fossil fuel consumption while supporting more efficient terminal operations.
According to KfW IPEX-Bank, the pilot will help assess the performance and operational readiness of the planned automated handling system.
Potential expansion to other German terminals
The results from Wilhelmshaven will help EUROGATE decide whether to expand the technology across its German network.
Hamburg is expected to be the first location considered for a future rollout, followed by other EUROGATE terminals in Germany. However, these plans will depend on the outcome of the pilot project.
“Together with EUROGATE, we are sending a clear signal in favour of modernising port logistics and the associated strengthening of Germany as a business location,” said Aida Welker, Member of the Management Board of KfW IPEX-Bank.
EUROGATE Chief Financial Officer Kristian Ludwig also highlighted the bank’s role in supporting the financing of the project.
The investment will allow EUROGATE to test how autonomous transport, automated cranes and digital systems can work together before considering wider deployment.
