Hamburger Hafen und Logistik AG (HHLA) has taken a significant step towards greener operations by introducing the first two electrically powered trucks at its Container-Transport-Dienst GmbH (CTD) forwarding company in Germany. The deployment of these Volvo FH Electric trucks marks the beginning of an insightful trial period that could pave the way for further expansion of the electric fleet.
Initially, the two electric trucks will be utilized by CTD for container transfers within the Port of Hamburg. The extensive tests and data collection during this trial phase will provide HHLA with crucial insights into the efficient use of electric trucks and their charging processes within the port.
The Volvo FH Electric, renowned for its reliability, can cover 260 to 340 kilometers when fully loaded. Equipped with a 540 kWh battery storage system and a maximum charging capacity of 250 kW, the trucks will initially rely on publicly available charging infrastructure.
HHLA has been at the forefront of driving innovation, having previously tested the integration of automated guided vehicles (AGVs) into the German energy grid as mobile storage units under the FRESH funding project. Furthermore, the company has already implemented electrically powered container cranes and tractor units at its terminals across Europe.
In collaboration with partners in the Clean Port & Logistics Cluster, HHLA is also exploring the potential of hydrogen-powered equipment alongside battery-powered electric equipment. Meanwhile, HHLA’s rail subsidiary, Metrans, has been successfully using electric trucks for container transportation for the past two years.
