The ports have taken another step forward in their move toward electrification.
Yusen Terminals has introduced five battery-electric top handlers at the Port of Los Angeles, a move the terminal services provider said would reduce its carbon footprint.
Alan McCorkle, the president and chief executive of Yusen Terminals, called the announcement a “significant leap forward in our commitment to sustainability.”
“We believe in leading by example and setting new standards for environmental responsibility in our industry. With the introduction of these electric top handlers, we are not only reducing our carbon footprint and continuing to support our local workforce, but also pioneering a greener future for global port operations,” he added.
The Taylor ZLC 996 electric top handlers will be operated by members of the ILWU Local 13. Yusen Terminals plans to add three more later this year.
“These all-electric cargo top handlers are the culmination of years of rigorous, real-world prototype testing and development here at our port,” Gene Seroka, the executive director of the Port of L.A., said in a statement. “I commend Yusen Terminals for its vision and leadership. Our collective commitment to pursuing this technology has paid off, helping prove this equipment’s commercial viability.”
Yusen Terminals isn’t the only company looking to go green at or near the San Pedro Bay Port Complex.
Earlier this year Prologis opened a 96-outlet charging depot at one of its trucking warehouses in Torrance. Maersk is leasing the location. Einride, which Maersk invests in, opened a 65-unit charging station nearby in Lynwood earlier this year.
Meanwhile, Amazon.com Inc. introduced eight battery electric Volvo trucks to the ports this year. Last year Long Beach-based WattEV opened a station capable of charging 26 trucks at once.
There’s a lot being built as well. In May Oakland-based Forum Mobility broke ground on a 44-stall depot at the Port of Long Beach. Virginia-based Electrify America and Rialto-based 4Gen Logistics are also under construction on a station that will bring 30 charging stalls to the Port of Long Beach.
Zane Hill contributed to this report.
