Konecranes, in partnership with Hamburger Hafen und Logistik AG (HHLA), has launched real-world trials of a hydrogen fuel cell-powered Noell straddle carrier at the Container Terminal Tollerort (CTT) in Hamburg.
The zero-emission unit is showing early success, delivering performance on par with hybrid models and offering fast response times during container handling operations.
A key innovation of the straddle carrier is its modular powertrain architecture, designed to accommodate various drive technologies—hydrogen, hybrid, or battery-electric—through simple retrofits.
This future-ready flexibility positions the platform as a scalable solution for terminal operators preparing for energy transition mandates.
Refuelling at CTT is carried out via a dedicated hydrogen fuelling station, using a process closely aligned with conventional bunkering practices, thereby supporting integration into existing operational routines.
HHLA is also rolling out specialised training modules to support knowledge transfer and long-term workforce readiness.
Dr Volker Windeck, Head of Hydrogen Projects at HHLA, stated: “This pilot shows that hydrogen propulsion is a credible alternative for heavy-duty terminal operations. The system performs on par with conventional drives while producing no emissions.
“By contributing our findings to the Clean Port & Logistics (CPL) cluster, we’re building a knowledge base for sustainable port technology across the industry.”
Hubert Foltys, Head of Straddle Carrier Business at Konecranes, added: “Hydrogen offers tremendous potential for emissions-free container handling. Our collaboration with HHLA—one of the most experienced straddle carrier operators globally—provides essential insights as we develop and refine this next-generation equipment.”
The pilot is part of the broader Clean Port & Logistics (CPL) initiative, a collaboration of over 40 international partners aimed at accelerating the deployment of hydrogen-powered terminal and logistics equipment.
CTT’s hydrogen testing site actively tests and optimises core operational parameters—including refuelling safety, maintenance, and supply logistics—in real-world conditions.
The German Federal Ministry of Transport provides €3 million ($3.5 million) in funding to support the hydrogen infrastructure and CPL initiative through the National Innovation Programme for Hydrogen and Fuel Cell Technology.
Recently, the Alabama Port Authority placed an order for two Konecranes Rubber-Tyred Gantry (RTG) cranes to support its upcoming intermodal facility in Montgomery, Alabama.
