Port of Hamburg tests straddle carrier with fuel cell
The special vehicle comes from Finnish manufacturer Konecranes, which had already delivered two hybrid-powered straddle carriers to the Port of Hamburg in 2019. The new straddle carrier, which has now been put into operation, is similar to the hybrid model but runs on a hydrogen fuel cell. However, this does not necessarily have to remain the case: it can also be converted to a hybrid or battery-electric drive.
Like other straddle carriers, the new fuel cell straddle carrier is used to transport containers through the port. According to HHLA, initial practical tests show that the system responds quickly and that handling operations are carried out with the same performance as the hybrid version.
Dr. Volker Windeck, Head of Hydrogen Projects at HHLA, said: “With this pilot project, we are demonstrating that hydrogen drive systems represent a genuine alternative in the area of heavy-load operations. The technology matches the performance level of conventional drive systems and generates zero emissions. By systematically recording and sharing our experiences in the Clean Port & Logistics cluster, we are creating the basis for climate-friendly transport solutions that benefit not just us but the entire industry.”
Konecranes manager Hubert Foltys added, “We are grateful to partner with HHLA in testing the hydrogen-powered Konecranes Noell Straddle Carrier. Hydrogen is an extremely promising power source for the world, it would give us enormous benefits starting with carbon freedom at the tailpipe.”
The vehicle is part of the hydrogen test field in the Port of Hamburg: In the Clean Port & Logistics Cluster, HHLA is working with over 40 partner companies from around the world to develop solutions for bringing hydrogen-powered heavy-duty vehicles and terminal equipment to market quickly and preparing the necessary measures for their deployment. The hydrogen test field has its own hydrogen filling station where the new straddle carrier can be refuelled.
The cluster and the filling station are funded by the Federal Ministry of Transport (BMV) with a total of around three million euros as part of the National Innovation Program for Hydrogen and Fuel Cell Technology.
This article was first published by Florian Treiß for electrive’s German edition
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