Konecranes unveils hydrogen fuel cell straddle carrier

Konecranes is debuting the Konecranes Noell Hydrogen Fuel Cell Straddle Carrier at TOC Americas 2025 in Panama City. The launch marks the carrier’s first appearance in the Americas and globally. It will be showcased alongside the Konecranes E-Hybrid RTG and electric empty container handler, highlighting the company’s progress toward a full portfolio of low- and zero-emission equipment.

The hydrogen-powered straddle carrier is under testing at Hamburger Hafen und Logistik AG’s (HHLA) hydrogen test field in Hamburg. Early results show the same strong performance as diesel and hybrid versions.

“Hydrogen fuel cells have mostly powered light equipment so far,” says Thomas Gylling, Director of Marketing & Customer Experience, Port Solutions, Konecranes. “This straddle carrier is a breakthrough for heavy material handling. It proves hydrogen can deliver the power and reliability ports need.”

Gylling adds: “This launch is part of Konecranes Ecolifting, our initiative to make container handling emission-free at the tailpipe using electric and hydrogen power. We’re on track to offer all-electric versions of our Ports product line by 2026.”

E-Hybrid RTG: Smart Power and Flexibility

Konecranes is also presenting its E-Hybrid RTG in Panama City. The crane combines proven battery technology with cable reel or busbar systems linked to the local grid. Batteries serve as the main power source and recharge automatically when needed.

This design benefits terminals that experience frequent power outages and depend on diesel RTGs. It also cuts electrical infrastructure costs compared to fully cable-powered RTGs.

Electric Empty Container Handler: Long-Lasting Efficiency

The Konecranes electric empty container handler is now available across the Americas. Its high-voltage battery system enables up to 12 hours of operation per charge.

Launched in October 2024, the handler has already entered service in several regions, earning positive feedback for performance and energy efficiency.

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