Contship deploys first electric port tractor

Contship has introduced its first fully electric port tractor at La Spezia Container Terminal (LSCT) as part of efforts to reduce emissions from terminal operations.

Contship deploys first electric port tractor

The vehicle, operated by Hannibal, will be used for internal shuttle operations within the terminal under a pilot project focused on the gradual electrification of the quay tractor fleet and the reduction of Scope 1 emissions.

Electric tractors are considered well suited to terminal environments due to their proximity to charging infrastructure and the operational benefits gained from frequent stop-start movements, which maximise regenerative braking efficiency.

The vehicle is also expected to reduce energy consumption during container handling activities while lowering noise and vibration levels across the terminal.

The project received co-financing through the “Green Ports PNRR” programme, managed by the Port System Authority of the Eastern Ligurian Sea under the wider “Green Ports: renewable energy and energy efficiency measures in ports” initiative backed by the European Union’s Next Generation EU fund.

The programme aims to cut CO2 emissions and improve air quality in port areas.

Simone Pacciardi, Head of EU Relations, EU Project Management and PNRR Funds at the Port System Authority of the Eastern Ligurian Sea, said: “The energy transition programme we have launched aims to decarbonise port activities.

“In particular, the Authority has made its know-how available to terminal operators with regard to the management of PNRR funding, thereby enabling them to seize the opportunities offered by the Green Ports initiative for the benefit of the port system.”

Denise Sofia, Head of ESG at Contship, added: “The introduction of the electric tractor represents a concrete step forward in the Group’s sustainability agenda.

“In 2025, we launched our ambitious ‘Moves that Matter’ strategy, setting clear and measurable targets, including the decarbonisation of Group operations in line with SBTi standards. This project demonstrates how innovation and sustainability, combined with effective public-private collaboration, can generate initiatives capable of creating long-term value.”