Thessaloniki Port Authority (ThPA) has received and is commissioning eight new hybrid diesel-electric straddle carriers at the Port of Thessaloniki, renewing the container terminal’s mechanical equipment as the Pier 6 expansion project progresses.
The procurement is part of ThPA’s broader investment program to modernize the port, aiming to increase efficiency, improve cargo handling service quality and enhance competitiveness. Since 2018, the company has modernized its mechanical equipment through the procurement of 12 straddle carriers, one mobile harbor crane, and two New Panamax ship-to-shore cranes capable of serving mainline vessels with a capacity of more than 10,000 TEU.
The new straddle carriers, manufactured in Europe, feature hybrid technology that delivers higher energy efficiency, a stated 18% reduction in fuel consumption and lower pollutant emissions, contributing to the port’s gradual transition toward a more environmentally responsible operating model while enhancing operational capabilities and autonomy for the container terminal.
Integrating the new machinery into the port’s straddle carrier fleet will modernize container transportation and stacking equipment and substantially increase the storage capacity of the container terminal yard. The new units enable more efficient use of available space, thanks to their ability to stack containers at greater heights. They are also expected to expedite service for trucks and container vessels, boosting overall container terminal productivity and reducing wait and service times, with a direct impact on cargo flows, gate decongestion and the experience of the port’s users and partners.
Ioannis Tsaras, CEO of ThPA, said, “The procurement of the eight new straddle carriers constitutes an additional decisive step toward preparing the Port of Thessaloniki for its next growth phase and yet another investment with the strategic objective of continuously modernizing its infrastructure and operations.
“We are rendering our mechanical equipment more modern, more efficient and more sustainable to improve the productivity of the container terminal in an environment of increasing demand for faster, reliable and environmentally more responsible port services. Through the consistent implementation of investments in infrastructure, equipment and technology, ThPA strengthens Thessaloniki’s position as a modern trade and logistics hub for Southeastern Europe.”
Related news, Sallaum Lines orders one-plus-one 8,600 CEU PCTC from China Merchants Shipbuilding