Kalmar's Innovative Hybrid Straddle Carriers
Kalmar Corporation has successfully reached an agreement to supply Forth Ports Group with six cutting-edge hybrid straddle carriers designed for enhancing efficiency and reducing environmental impact. This strategic partnership underlines Kalmar's commitment to providing sustainable solutions in the port operations sector.
Supporting Forth Ports in Decarbonisation Efforts
The introduction of these hybrid straddle carriers marks a significant step in Forth Ports' journey toward equipment decarbonisation. The fleet will be divided between the Port of Tilbury and Forth Ports Grangemouth, with three units scheduled to operate at each location. This move is set to play a crucial role in Forth Ports' mission to lower its carbon footprint.
Enhanced Operations at Key Locations
The Port of Tilbury stands out as the largest of the eight ports managed by Forth Ports, handling an impressive annual throughput of 16 million tonnes. It caters to a diverse range of cargo types, including roll-on/roll-off vehicles, containers, and forest products. On the other hand, Forth Ports Grangemouth serves as Scotland’s largest port, efficiently managing nine million tonnes of cargo each year. The capabilities of these new hybrid machines will undoubtedly bolster operations at both sites.
Fuel Efficiency and Emission Reduction
One of the most significant advantages of adopting Kalmar's hybrid straddle carriers is the potential for considerable reductions in fuel consumption and CO2 emissions. These machines not only achieve environmental sustainability but also operate with a noticeable decrease in noise levels compared to traditional diesel-powered models.
Commitment from Leadership
Commenting on this development, Stuart Wallace, CEO of Forth Ports, expressed satisfaction with the performance of their current fleet, emphasizing the reliability and local support from Kalmar. With ambitious net zero targets established, Forth Ports is determined to invest in greener technologies to ensure their operations remain sustainable. The addition of hybrid machines is a vital part of this strategic vision.
Long-standing Partnership with Kalmar
Kalmar's Country Director for the UK & Ireland, Peter McCance, revealed that the collaboration between Forth Ports and Kalmar spans two decades, significantly improving operational efficiency. The hybrid technology promises to reduce fuel consumption by up to 40% compared to equivalent diesel models, showing how innovation can lead to more sustainable practices.
Kalmar's Role in Global Supply Chains
With a headquarters in Helsinki, Finland, Kalmar is at the forefront of motivating change in material handling across global supply chains. Their solutions have earned them a reputation for shaping the heavy material handling equipment and service industries. In 2024 alone, Kalmar reported sales of approximately EUR 1.7 billion, reflecting their robust operational capabilities.
Contact Information for Further Inquiries
For further insights or media inquiries regarding this initiative, interested parties can reach out to Peter McCance at +441691623100 or via email at peter.mccance@kalmarglobal.com. Additionally, Maija Eklöf, Vice President of Marketing and Communications, is available at +358 20 777 4096 or maija.eklof@kalmarglobal.com.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are hybrid straddle carriers, and how do they work?
Hybrid straddle carriers combine traditional engines with electric power systems, which helps reduce fuel consumption and lower emissions during operations.
What benefits do Forth Ports expect from using Kalmar's new machines?
Forth Ports anticipates reduced fuel costs, decreased CO2 emissions, and lower noise levels, contributing to their sustainability goals.
How is Kalmar contributing to sustainability in material handling?
Kalmar offers innovative equipment designed to enhance efficiency and reduce the environmental impact of logistics and port operations globally.
Where will the new straddle carriers be deployed?
The six new hybrids will be split between the Port of Tilbury and Forth Ports Grangemouth, enhancing operations at both locations.
How long has Kalmar been partnered with Forth Ports?
Kalmar and Forth Ports have enjoyed a successful partnership for over 20 years, collaborating on various initiatives to improve operational efficiency.
