First results from HHLA’s tests of a hydrogen-powered straddle carrier prototype at its CTT facility in Hamburg signal “a hydrogen future is looking more and more possible.”
A hydrogen-powered straddle carrier prototype from Konecranes is being tested at Hamburger Hafen und Logistik AG’s (HHLA) hydrogen test field at Container Terminal Tollerort (CTT) in Hamburg. The facility, which includes the port’s first hydrogen refuelling station, was opened by HHLA in July 2024 as part of the Clean Port & Logistics (CPL) innovation cluster.
In mid 2024 Konecranes introduced a redesigned Konecranes Noell straddle carrier with three modular power options: hybrid, battery and hydrogen. The machine is powered by batteries that can be re-charged by either of the three options: a small diesel genset (the hybrid option), via a charging station (full battery option) or with a hydrogen fuel cell (the hydrogen option).
The first machine to feature a hydrogen fuel cell is now operating at CTT. “Initial experiences in practice show that the drive system responds quickly and performs handling operations with the same performance as the hybrid version,” HHLA added.
HHLA said that the straddle carrier is refuelled at the hydrogen filling station at CTT using a process similar to standard fuelling procedures, thereby creating synergies in operations. Hydrogen for the test field is currently being sourced from Germany. The port operator is also developing supplementary training modules to ensure knowledge is systematically transferred and a long-term skills base is established.
“With this pilot project, we are demonstrating that hydrogen drive systems represent a genuine alternative in heavy-load operations,” said Dr Volker Windeck, Head of Hydrogen Projects at HHLA. “The technology matches the performance level of conventional drive systems and generates zero emissions. By sharing our experiences in the Clean Port & Logistics cluster, we are creating the basis for climate-friendly transport solutions that benefit the entire industry.”
Konecranes described the trial as a critical step in advancing hydrogen adoption in terminal equipment. “Hydrogen is an extremely promising power source for the world, it would give us enormous benefits starting with carbon freedom at the tailpipe,” said Hubert Foltys, Head of Straddle Carrier Business at Konecranes. “We are gaining irreplaceable experience and knowledge with HHLA in testing this unit. A hydrogen future is looking more and more possible.”
Hydrogen test field
Two prototype machines are currently being tested at the hydrogen test field at CTT: a hydrogen-powered straddle carrier from Konecranes and a Hyster terminal tractor with a hydrogen fuel cell drive. The Hyster unit was developed in collaboration with yard truck brand Capacity and is powered by Nuvera hydrogen fuel cells. Nuvera, a subsidiary of Hyster-Yale Group, has worked with Capacity since 2020.
HHLA confirmed to WorldCargo News that a third heavy-duty vehicle is scheduled to join the test field by the end of the year.
The Clean Port & Logistics Cluster (CPL) was launched by HHLA in 2022, together with more than 40 international partners. The cluster aims to accelerate the market readiness of hydrogen-powered heavy goods vehicles and terminal equipment, while also developing concepts for operation, safety, maintenance, refuelling and supply. These concepts are now being tested and optimised in real-world conditions at CTT. The cluster and filling station received approximately €3m from the Federal Ministry of Transport as part of a national innovation programme for hydrogen and fuel cell technology.
HHLA told WorldCargo News that a key milestone this year was the annual Clean Port & Logistics Hydrogen Cluster meeting in Hamburg, which reviewed progress in the real-world test environment. The event featured presentations on research and pilot projects, an Innovation Market to foster cooperation, and site visits to the CTT hydrogen test field where participants examined prototypes and discussed technical details.
The company added that beyond testing hydrogen-powered equipment, it is also involved in hydrogen import, particularly in liquid form, and is working with partners on infrastructure and logistics solutions. A key focus is on ensuring hydrogen can be transported efficiently to the hinterland, extending supply chains beyond the port to support wider industrial and energy needs.
HHLA, which has set a target of becoming climate-neutral across the group by 2040, views hydrogen as a key element in its decarbonisation journey in addition to the electrification of its systems and equipment across Europe.
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