SSA Marine, one of the world’s largest independent marine terminal operators, has unveiled the inaugural zero-emissions cargo handling equipment at the Port of San Diego’s Tenth Avenue Marine Terminal. This marks the first of six pieces scheduled for introduction over the next 12 to 18 months.
Additionally, the Port of San Diego has finished installing the necessary electrical infrastructure to facilitate the operation of this equipment.
SSA Marine is commencing operations with the first piece of zero-emissions equipment at the terminal: a Wiggins Yard eBull battery electric forklift with a capacity of 55,000 pounds.
Furthermore, the acquisition of this equipment received partial financing through California’s Clean Off-Road Equipment (CORE) voucher program.
“SSA Marine is proud to partner with the Port of San Diego to demonstrate the potential of zero-emissions equipment in a marine terminal environment and to further understand what the long-term benefits could look like. The Port of San Diego’s proactive approach to electric infrastructure development has been critical to the success of this program, and we look forward to continuing to work together to transitioning additional pieces of zero-emissions cargo handling equipment in the years ahead,” stated Bill Fitz, senior vice president of SSA Marine’s conventional division.
This large-capacity forklift, known as “The Carrillo,” is among the largest zero-emissions forklifts in operation in the United States and can handle loads of up to 25 metric tons. It pays tribute to SSA Marine Regional vice president Joe Carrillo, a San Diego County native, who played a pivotal role in introducing the country’s first fleet of large-capacity electric forklifts. This initiative includes the deployment of 26 Wiggins Yard eBull electric forklifts at SSA Marine terminals located at the Port of West Sacramento and the Port of Stockton.
“SSA Marine is the kind of partner we like doing business with. We share a commitment to improving public health and quality of life on and around our marine terminals. SSA Marine and many other Port tenants are helping to deliver on our promise to support efficient, modern, and sustainable maritime operations,” commented chairman Frank Urtasun, port of San Diego Board of Port Commissioners.
