Konecranes Unveils Hydrogen Fuel Cell Straddle Carrier at TOC Americas

Konecranes will introduce its Noell Hydrogen Fuel Cell Straddle Carrier at the TOC Americas 2025 event in Panama City. The debut marks the company’s latest move toward developing low- and zero-emission container handling equipment.

The hydrogen-powered straddle carrier is currently undergoing testing at Hamburger Hafen und Logistik AG’s (HHLA) hydrogen test field in Hamburg. Early results indicate comparable performance to Konecranes’ diesel and hybrid models.

“To date, hydrogen fuel cells have mainly been used with light material handling equipment, so the workhorse Konecranes Noell Hydrogen Fuel Cell Straddle Carrier marks an important step forward for heavy material handling equipment,” said Thomas Gylling, director of marketing and customer experience, Port Solutions, Konecranes.

“This introduction is part of Konecranes Ecolifting, which aims to make container handling equipment emission-free at the tailpipe with all-electric and hydrogen power options while sacrificing nothing in performance. And we remain well on track towards our goal of having all-electric variants for our entire Ports product portfolio by 2026,” Gylling added.

Konecranes is also featuring two additional products at TOC Americas: the E-Hybrid rubber-tired gantry (RTG) crane and the electric empty container handler.

The E-Hybrid RTG combines battery technology with conventional cable reel or busbar systems connected to the local grid. The batteries serve as the primary power source and can be recharged through the external systems when needed. This approach can reduce dependence on diesel RTGs and minimize infrastructure costs in regions where electrical blackouts are common.

The electric empty container handler, now available throughout the Americas, uses high-voltage battery technology designed to provide up to 12 hours of operation before recharging. Deliveries, which began in late 2024 in other global markets, are underway, with positive initial feedback reported.

Konecranes’ product introductions align with the company’s broader Ecolifting strategy, which focuses on reducing emissions, improving energy efficiency and supporting the decarbonization of industrial operations through advanced lifting technologies.

Visitors to TOC Americas can view the Hydrogen Fuel Cell Straddle Carrier, E-Hybrid RTG and electric empty container handler at the Konecranes exhibit.