At the beginning of June, Hamburger Hafen und Logistik AG (HHLA) initiated a significant step towards greener logistics by putting the first two electrically powered trucks into operation at its freight forwarder Container-Transport-Dienst GmbH (CTD). These eco-friendly trucks are a part of HHLA’s broader sustainability strategy aimed at accelerating the decarbonisation of logistics chains and offering customers more sustainable transport solutions.
Initially, these electric trucks will be used for container transfers within the Port of Hamburg and will undergo extensive testing. This testing phase is crucial for gathering data that will inform HHLA’s decisions on potentially expanding its fleet of e-trucks. The primary focus will be on the efficient use of the trucks within the port and optimizing their charging cycles.
The Volvo FH electric trucks, which have been awarded the title of Truck of the Year 2024, are noted for their superior quality and reliability in logistics. They have an impressive range, capable of covering 260 to 340 kilometers on a full load. Each truck is equipped with a 540 kWh battery and a maximum charge capacity of 250 kW. For now, these trucks will rely on the existing public charging infrastructure.
Angela Titzrath, CEO of HHLA, stated, “Environmentally friendly, resource-saving processes and logistics services represent a key pillar of our corporate strategy, which has been firmly established for many years. We have set ourselves the ambitious goal of achieving climate-neutral production across the Group by 2040. In this quest, we are committed to using innovative technologies in order to further reduce carbon emissions, which also benefits our customers. The launch of the new electric trucks is another decisive step for HHLA on the road to a more climate-friendly future.”
Ralph Frankenstein, Managing Director of CTD, added, “We are looking forward to extensively testing the two electric trucks, thereby enabling us to offer our customers green transport solutions. As such, we are making a significant contribution to sustainable logistics in the year of our 50th anniversary.”
For many years, HHLA has been committed to decarbonising its operations. The company already utilizes electrically powered container gantry cranes, automated guided vehicles, and tractor units at its European terminals. As part of the Clean Port & Logistics cluster, HHLA is also exploring hydrogen-powered equipment alongside electric, battery-powered devices.
Moreover, HHLA’s rail subsidiary, Metrans, has been using and testing electric trucks for container transport since 2022. These trucks are part of Metrans’ environmentally friendly fleet, which includes electric and hybrid locomotives and electric rail gantry cranes. This initiative aims to provide customers with completely climate-friendly transport solutions, enhancing the value of combining green road and rail transport.
