APM Terminals and SANY Marine have signed a landmark Master Framework Agreement to supply battery-electric terminal tractors, advancing APM Terminals’ global decarbonisation efforts.
The agreement, signed in Zhuhai, China, marks the beginning of a major equipment transition: replacing approximately 500 diesel-powered terminal tractors across APM Terminals’ global network with battery-electric models by 2030. This move is part of a broader strategy to standardise terminal equipment and accelerate the shift to net-zero operations.
“This agreement demonstrates our commitment to action,” said Olaf Gelhausen, COO of APM Terminals. “Standardising our equipment and scaling battery-electric solutions is central to achieving net zero.” The company’s approach includes integrating battery-electric equipment, renewable energy, and energy efficiency measures into terminal operations.
For SANY Marine, the deal represents its largest global electric terminal truck order to date. CEO Jeff Fu commented, “We are proud to support APM Terminals with comprehensive, low-carbon solutions that help drive faster progress toward fully decarbonised terminal operations.”
The collaboration also reflects the strategic shift from a traditional CapEx model to a full-cycle partnership. This includes end-to-end support for the operation, maintenance, and optimisation of the equipment over its lifespan.
“This is a win-win partnership born out of our 2024 Strategic Supplier Council,” said Grant Morrison, Head of Global Asset Category Management at APM Terminals. “It’s about long-term collaboration and real progress.”
The deal also aligns with the objectives of the Zero Emission Port Alliance, co-founded by APM Terminals in 2023. With improved cost-effectiveness and technology in battery-electric equipment, the company sees this as a pivotal moment for the industry’s path to decarbonisation.
“This progress benefits the entire industry,” added Gelhausen. “It makes our net zero target increasingly realistic.”
