Hamburger Hafen und Logistik AG is testing the first hydrogen-powered straddle carrier at the Port of Hamburg.
The vehicle is being utilized in operations at the Container Terminal Tollerort testing facility as part of the Clean Port & Logistics innovation cluster.
The new straddle carrier model from manufacturer Konecranes is powered by a hydrogen fuel cell and operates emission-free.
Initial practical experiences demonstrate that the drive system responds quickly and performs handling operations with performance matching the hybrid version. A distinctive feature of the vehicle is its modular power system, which can be flexibly adapted to different drive system types (hybrid, battery, or hydrogen) through simple modifications.
The straddle carrier is refueled at the CTT hydrogen filling station using a process similar to standard fueling procedures, creating operational synergies.
Supplementary training modules are being developed to ensure systematic knowledge transfer while establishing a long-term skills base.
Dr. Volker Windeck, Head of Hydrogen Projects, HHLA, stated that through this pilot project, they’re demonstrating that hydrogen drive systems represent a genuine alternative in heavy-load operations.
HHLA collaborates with more than 40 partner companies from around the world in the Clean Port & Logistics cluster to develop solutions bringing hydrogen-powered heavy goods vehicles and terminal equipment to market rapidly and establishing the necessary measures for their use.
The concepts developed by working groups for operation, safety, maintenance, refueling, and supply are tested and optimized in practical operation at the CTT testing facility.
Their CPL collaboration assists companies in decarbonizing their processes and making meaningful, climate-friendly investments as they collect necessary information and practical experience.
The cluster and filling station received funding of approximately three million euros from the Federal Ministry of Transport as part of a national innovation program for hydrogen and fuel cell technology.
The funding guidelines are coordinated by NOW GmbH and implemented by Project Management Jülich.
As part of the “Balanced Logistics” sustainability strategy, HHLA aims to achieve climate neutrality throughout the Group by 2040.
