Efficient hybrid straddle carriers

Developed by China-headquartered Shanghai Zhenhua Heavy Industry Co Ltd. (ZPMC), the automated straddle carrier aim to help operators achieve energy savings, lower maintenance costs, environmental protection and regulatory compliance.

“ZPMC’S ability to deploy automated straddle carriers as a cost-efficient, modular retrofit solution unlocks new opportunities, not only for current straddle carrier operations but also for current RTG terminal operations,” said Larry Li, president, ZPMC North America Inc.

Good navigation

The straddle carrier’s driverless technology features integrated navigation and positioning alongside modular design, diesel and battery hybrid capability, wheel-side synchronous motor drive and eight-wheel hydraulic independent steering.

As the machine is dual operation, it can be switched freely between manual driving and driverless modes, depending on the situation.

The straddle carrier has high mobility and flexibility, enabling modular retrofit for current operations in existing terminals.

Automated straddle carriers currently account for less than 5% of the container terminal straddle carrier market, but Mr Li suggests that “A conservative estimate” indicates that automated straddle carriers will reach 20% of the global market in the next five to ten years.

“At ZPMC, we are continuing to innovate our port machinery to achieve the seamless integration of artificial intelligence and port efficiency and the driverless straddle carrier is our benchmark product. We look forward to implementing this new technology in ports around the world,” he added.