The hydrogen-powered straddle carrier is currently undergoing testing at Hamburger Hafen und Logistik AG’s hydrogen test facility in Hamburg, Germany. Early results indicate that the hydrogen model performs comparably to existing diesel and hybrid variants, demonstrating its capability to meet the high operational demands of container terminals.
Thomas Gylling, Director of Marketing & Customer Experience, Port Solutions at Konecranes, stated: “To date, hydrogen fuel cells have mainly been used with light material handling equipment, so the workhorse Noell Hydrogen Fuel Cell Straddle Carrier marks an important step forward for heavy material handling equipment.” He added: “This introduction is part of Konecranes Ecolifting, which aims to make container handling equipment emission-free at the tailpipe with all-electric and hydrogen power options while sacrificing nothing in performance. And we remain well on track towards our goal of having all-electric variants for our entire Ports product portfolio by 2026.”
The E-Hybrid RTG, also being showcased in Panama City, combines battery technology with conventional cable reel or busbar systems. This hybrid configuration supports port terminals that experience frequent power interruptions, reducing dependence on diesel rubber-tyred gantries (RTGs) and minimizing the need for costly electrical infrastructure expansion.
Konecranes continues to focus on innovation and operational reliability, aligning its product development with global sustainability goals and customer needs in high-throughput ports. The company’s technological advancements emphasize the importance of flexible power solutions—hydrogen, battery, and hybrid—enabling terminal operators to transition toward more energy-efficient and environmentally sustainable operations.
In addition, Konecranes Port Services recently signed a five-year service agreement with Operaciones Portuarias Canarias S.A. (OPCSA), a subsidiary of Terminal Investment Limited (TiL) Group, strengthening its customer support presence in Europe and reinforcing long-term equipment maintenance partnerships.
With these developments, Konecranes continues to expand its Ecolifting portfolio, integrating hydrogen and electric technologies across its product lines. The company’s focus on performance, reliability, and reduced emissions demonstrates a significant step toward decarbonizing heavy port equipment, aligning with global trends in clean energy adoption and sustainable logistics infrastructure.
The Panama launch of the hydrogen straddle carrier underscores Konecranes’ strategic commitment to advancing green port technologies across major global markets, supporting terminal operators in achieving efficiency and sustainability goals without compromising productivity.
