DP World and Asian Terminals Deploy First Fleet of Electric Internal Transfer Vehicles

DP World and its strategic partner, Asian Terminals Inc. (ATI) has unveiled a brand-new fleet of 15 electric internal transfer vehicles (eITVs) along with corresponding rapid-charging infrastructure at the Philippines’ premier trade gateway, the Manila South Harbour (MSH). This is the first fleet of eITVs to be deployed for operations in the country.
 
This new fleet of ITVs will facilitate transportation of containers between vessels and yard, to enable quick vessel turnaround time and improve overall terminal efficiency. In addition to enhancing landside operational efficiency, this milestone also accelerates the terminal’s transition to clean energy-powered landside operations, marking a huge step towards the goal of operating a fully-decarbonised fleet by 2030.
 
The investment, valued at about ₱hp120 million (US$2.1 million), reflects both companies’ strong commitment and leadership towards sustainable port operations and their shared vision of reducing the environmental footprint in the logistics space. Plans are underway to facilitate the deployment of more electric equipment, including rubber-tired gantry cranes, side loaders, reach stackers, and forklifts, in the next few years.  Glen Hilton, CEO & Managing Director, Asia Pacific, DP World commented: “This is a significant leap not only for DP World, but also for the Philippines as we continue to work with our partner, ATI, and local authorities to further power economic growth for the country. We are proud to align this new chapter to our sustainability journey by investing in next-generation terminal equipment that operates on clean energy with zero emissions.”
 
This initiative aligns with DP World’s global decarbonisation roadmap, which targets a 42% reduction in carbon emissions by 2030, and net-zero operations by 2050. It also supports the Philippine government’s thrust to modernise the country’s key gateways through greener, smarter, and more efficient trade solutions, spearheaded by the Philippine Ports Authority (PPA). Atty. Jay Daniel Santiago, PPA General Manager, welcomed the development, emphasising the importance of private sector involvement in the industry’s green transition. He said: “We congratulate DP World and ATI for this operational milestone. It is encouraging to see the private sector take the lead in ushering the ports and logistics sector into a cleaner and greener future – one that is not only ecologically sound but also beneficial for business, industry, and the broader community. Our aspiration is to make the Philippine port system a benchmark for sustainability. This initiative helps set the pace for greening the logistics sector, beginning with our major international gateways.”

Manufactured by Sany Heavy Industry Co., Ltd, the new eITVs are equipped with high-capacity batteries, powerful electric drivetrains, and advanced control systems that deliver safe, efficient, and zero-emission cargo movement. Before deployment, the electric fleet underwent a rigorous one-year technical and safety evaluation by DP World and ATI engineers to ensure optimum performance under local conditions. This proactive assessment enabled the seamless integration and immediate deployment of the new units into day-to-day operations, to enable quick vessel and cargo turnaround time. Earlier this year, DP World also added two new ship-to-shore (STS) cranes – among the largest and most technologically advanced in the Philippines – bringing its fleet of fully electric STS cranes to 11. This move enhances the port’s capacity and efficiency, while supporting both DP World’s and ATI’s broader sustainability goals. Currently, around 95% of the power requirement of MSH comes from renewable energy sources, with full 100% coverage expected soon.  

< Korea Shipping Gazette >