Bolloré Ports has ordered two new electric terminal tractors and a multi-charge station from the engineering company Gaussin to equip Freetown Terminal, the main container terminal in Sierra Leone.
This order, which includes two APM 75T HE electric port tractors, four POWERPACK HE and a 6×4 multi-load station, constitutes the third time Bolloré Ports has placed an order in the French company, following the Green Terminal environmental labelling process, which was initiated by Bolloré Ports with the objective of gradually decarbonising the transportation of containers and vehicles driving in its terminals.
“This new acquisition to equip Freetown Terminal will allow us to significantly reduce our greenhouse gas emissions and improve our productivity thanks to the technology developed in synergy with Blue Solutions and Gaussin,” stated Olivier de Noray, Managing Director of Bolloré Ports and Terminals.
The creation of these terminal tractors was a result of common work between Gaussin, Bolloré Group’s subsidiary Blue Solutions’ with expertise in electric batteries production and the port operator Bolloré Ports.
“This partnership has led to the development of eco-responsible electric logistics and mobility solutions that are ideal for extreme environments, from the tropics to the desert, where heat alters sensitive components, particularly batteries,” explained Bolloré Ports.
The electric tractors are the first container transport solution designed specifically for hot or extra cold countries, while it comprises a solid-state battery technology, which is reliable at external temperatures ranging from -20°C to +60°C.
According to Gaussin, this 100% electric model will enable significant energy savings and will contribute to carbon-free port logistics, as well as reducing maintenance costs while increasing productivity, safety and driving comfort.
“The success of this French partnership is also proof that pooling skills to fight against the effects of global warming can lead to concrete actions to effectively and sustainably fight against global warming while improving operational performance,” said Philippe Labonne, CEO of Bolloré Ports.
Bolloré Ports has recently undertaken a series of improvements in Freetown Terminal, including the integration of modern and environmentally friendly handling equipment, with an objective to enhance the productivity of these port infrastructures in Sierra Leone.
