100 new trucks for Felixstowe

Owner Hutchison Ports first introduced Q-Trucks at Terminal D in Thailand’s Laem Chabang Port in 2020 where the fifteen trucks have handled more than 334,000 teu.

“Following the positive introduction of autonomous trucks at our terminal in Thailand and after thorough and successful testing in Felixstowe, we are rolling the system out in the UK,” said Clemence Cheng, chief executive of the Port of Felixstowe and executive director of Hutchison Ports.

“The new trucks will increase the efficiency and operational consistency of our container handling as well as making a significant contribution to decarbonising operations at the port.”

With delivery starting in September 2023, the new trucks will help the port meet its decarbonisation goals. Hutchison Ports has set a target of net zero by 2035 for scope 1 and scope 2 emissions. As well as the trucks, the port is investing in battery-powered conventional units, replacing its yard cranes and buying electricity from only renewable sources.

The Port of Felixstowe is part of Freeport East, one of twelve Freeports being established in the UK. As part of a drive for new innovation and investment, the port and Westwell are in discussions about establishing a new facility for Westwell withing Freeport East.