Since the 1950s, shipping containers, affectionately known as “The Box,” have revolutionized global logistics. As the world transitions to electrification, one critical yet challenging aspect to consider is the machinery that handles these massive containers. In his book “The Box,” Marc Levinson delves into how these steel giants transformed the world economy. Now, the focus is on electrifying the equipment that moves them, and A.P. Moller Maersk’s APM Terminals is emerging as a pioneer in this endeavour.
APM Terminals’ Vision
APM Terminals, overseeing a substantial share of the $8.1 trillion global container traffic, recognizes the urgency of decarbonization. Led by Sahar Rashidbeigi, the global head of decarbonization, APM Terminals is pushing the boundaries of electrification in container handling. Their recent white paper, “Reaching a Tipping Point in Battery-Electric Container Handling Equipment,” highlights their commitment to sustainable solutions.
Electrification Challenges and Solutions
The electrification of tethered container handlings equipment, such as stationary cranes and gantries, is relatively straightforward, as many already run on electricity. However, the challenge lies in untethered equipment like flat-bed trucks, wheeled straddle carriers, and reach stackers. APM Terminals is actively addressing these challenges, aiming to find practical and efficient electrification solutions for ground vehicles that play a vital role in the global shipping ecosystem.
As the maritime industry faces the imperative of reducing its carbon footprint, APM Terminals stands at the forefront, navigating the uncharted waters of electrifying container handling equipment, and paving the way for a more sustainable future in global logistics.
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Source: Forbes
