Port of Antwerp-Bruges introduces Europe’s first full-electric straddle carrier

17 May 2023

The Port of Antwerp-Bruges in Belgium has taken delivery of a fully electric straddle carrier, which it says is the first of its kind on mainland Europe.

The e-straddle carrier is taken part in a feasibility study that is part of the joint Green Straddle Carrier Program, in which the port terminal is evaluating four forms of energy – full electrification, hydrogen, hybrid battery/diesel and biofuel – that “significantly reduce these vehicles’ carbon emissions in their actual working environment”. Conclusive results from the study will determine which technology will be scaled up to meet future energy needs.

Konecranes, a global manufacturer of cranes and lifting equipment, built the e-straddle carrier, which runs 100% on batteries, can operate continuously for more than four hours, and takes approximately 90 minutes to recharge fully.

Francis De Ruytter, regional head of sustainability for Port of Antwerp-Bruges operator PSA Europe, Mediterranean and the Americas, emphasised the importance of targeting straddle carriers to reach PSA’s sustainability goals: “Straddle carriers are crucial in maintaining highly productive operations at our terminals, but at the same time they are responsible for approximately 90% of our direct emissions in Belgium.

“We are examining alternatives, while concurrently investing in our Green Straddle Carrier Program that explores various technological options and partners to make these vehicles more sustainable in the near term.”

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