Smart tyres drive green port operation

In a bid to enhance efficiency, safety and port sustainability, Tilbury is integrating real-time monitoring tools across its heavy equipment fleet. More than 500 Continental tyres are now in use across Kalmar, Hyster and Liebherr GB machines including cranes, forklifts and straddle carriers.

“We have partnered with Continental for our tyre requirements for a number of reasons,” said Andy Darlington, senior procurement & facilities manager at the Port of Tilbury.

“The exceptional performance of their tyres, combined with their advanced digital solutions, gives us reliability and endurance in our day-to-day operations.”

Real-time monitoring

Through ContiConnect and ContiPressureCheck, the port now benefits from real-time monitoring and predictive maintenance, slashing unplanned downtime by 20%.

Three on-site YardReader stations provide data that helps engineers anticipate issues before they occur, enhancing safety and operational continuity.

Continental’s StraddleMaster tyres also contribute to greener operations at the port – their low rolling resistance cuts fuel consumption by up to 30%.

Meanwhile, new production methods at Continental’s ISCC PLUS-certified Lousado plant allow for CO₂-neutral tyre manufacturing, reinforcing the port’s commitment to sustainability across the supply chain.

The partnership is bolstered by Halfords Commercial Fleet Services, which handles tyre inspections, stock and replacements at the port.

“This partnership is about more than tyres,” said Mike Leedham, OTR sales manager at Continental. “It’s about powering the future of ports through innovation and sustainability.”