A new hydrogen-powered straddle carrier from Konecranes is being tested in collaboration with HHLA at the CTT terminal, marking a milestone in sustainable port operations. Designed to deliver the same performance as hybrid versions while generating zero emissions, the vehicle highlights the growing potential of hydrogen in heavy-load logistics.
Hydrogen-Powered Innovation in Heavy Transport
The hydrogen fuel cell straddle carrier is emission-free and matches the performance level of conventional drive systems. Its modular power system allows for flexible adaptation to different drive types hybrid, battery, or hydrogen through simple modifications. Refueling is carried out at the hydrogen station at CTT using procedures similar to standard fueling, ensuring operational efficiency. Supplementary training modules are being developed to build a long-term skills base for hydrogen technology.
Dr. Volker Windeck, Head of Hydrogen Projects, emphasized that the pilot demonstrates hydrogen as a genuine alternative for heavy-load operations, adding: “The technology matches the performance level of conventional drive systems and generates zero emissions.”
Industry Collaboration Through the Clean Port & Logistics Cluster
The pilot project is part of the Clean Port & Logistics (CPL) cluster, which unites more than 40 global companies to accelerate hydrogen-powered solutions in logistics. CPL focuses on developing and testing concepts for operation, safety, maintenance, refueling, and supply in real-world conditions. This collective effort helps companies make informed, climate-friendly investments and supports the decarbonisation of port operations.
Hubert Foltys, Head of Straddle Carrier Business at Konecranes, highlighted the partnership with HHLA: “Hydrogen is an extremely promising power source. With HHLA, one of the world’s most knowledgeable operators, we are gaining irreplaceable experience in testing this unit.”
Funding and Sustainability Goals
The hydrogen straddle carrier project, along with the hydrogen filling station, received around €3 million in funding from the German Federal Ministry of Transport under the national innovation programme for hydrogen and fuel cell technology. The funding is coordinated by NOW GmbH and managed by Project Management Jülich (PTJ).
Aligned with its “Balanced Logistics” sustainability strategy, HHLA aims to achieve climate neutrality across the Group by 2040. Alongside electrification, hydrogen technologies are expected to play a key role in reaching this goal.
The hydrogen-powered straddle carrier pilot underscores the viability of hydrogen as a clean, high-performance energy source for port logistics. Through collaboration within the CPL cluster and support from public funding, Konecranes and HHLA are paving the way for sustainable, future-ready solutions in heavy-load operations, bringing the logistics industry closer to a zero-emission future.
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