European network logistics provider Hamburger Hafen und Logistik AG (HHLA) has started testing the first hydrogen-powered straddle carrier at the Port of Hamburg.

The straddle carrier, manufactured by Konecranes, is now being used in operations at the testing facility of the Container Terminal Tollerort (CTT) as part of the Clean Port & Logistics (CPL) innovation cluster.

HHLA states its initial experiences with the straddle carrier reveal the “drive system responds quickly and performs handling operations with the same performance as the hybrid version”.

The modular power system of the straddle carrier means it can be adapted to different types of drive systems - hybrid, battery or hydrogen - through simple modifications. 

The hydrogen-powered straddle carrier is refuelled at the hydrogen filling station at CTT using a process similar to standard fuelling procedures which, HHLA says, creates synergies in operations.

The company adds supplementary training modules are being developed to ensure knowledge is systematically transferred while establishing a skills base over the long-term.

Volker Windeck, HHLA’s head of hydrogen projects says the pilot project is 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,” Volker continues. 

“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.”