HHLA purchases eight more environmentally friendly terminal carriers

The renewal of the van carrier fleet at the Container Terminal Tollerort of Hamburger Hafen und Logistik AG (HHLA) is progressing: In April, eight new hybrid-powered van carriers (VC) went into operation there, transporting containers more environmentally friendly between ship, storage, railway, and truck gate. They consume significantly less fuel than their predecessors and thus emit correspondingly fewer emissions.

(Hamburg) Including these eight new devices, the hybrid VC fleet at the Container Terminal Tollerort (CTT) now comprises 18 units. The principle of the technology used is simple: Excess energy, which is released during braking or lowering the load, is stored by the VC in a powerful lithium-ion battery. During operation, the vehicle uses this energy from the battery. This significantly relieves the combustion engine.

Each hybrid VC saves over 30 percent fuel per operating hour compared to the diesel-electric predecessor models. This means that the eight new hybrid VCs can save approximately 200,000 liters of diesel annually. CO₂ emissions will also decrease significantly by around 530 tons per year.

Consistently relying on the latest technology

Regarding the new hybrid VC fleet, CTT Managing Director Robin Steyer states: “With the modern hybrid van carriers, we reduce our energy costs while simultaneously lowering emissions. They are further evidence that HHLA consistently relies on the latest technology and intelligent solutions. This benefits the company, the environment, and the employees.”

Previously, HHLA tested the devices in the demanding 24/7 port operation under all weather conditions: The first two prototypes of hybrid VCs started test operations at CTT as early as January 2019. They were another step by HHLA to transition its large equipment to increasingly environmentally friendly technologies.

New devices contribute to sustainability goals

The new devices also contribute to HHLA’s sustainability strategy and help achieve the ambitious goals: By 2030, HHLA aims to halve its CO₂ emissions compared to 2018 and to operate completely climate-neutral by 2040.

Photo: © HHLA