Kalmar powers Transnet’s green port revolution

Kalmar has strengthened its sustainability-driven partnership with Transnet Port Terminals (TPT) through a major order for 16 hybrid straddle carriers

The agreement, recorded in Kalmar’s Q4 2025 order intake, will see the machines delivered to TPT’s Cape Town and Port Elizabeth container terminals by Q2 2026.

TPT, a key provider of integrated and cost-efficient cargo-handling services across Southern Africa, manages 16 sea-cargo terminals situated in Durban, Richards Bay, East London, Cape Town, Gqeberha, and Saldanha. Its extensive equipment portfolio includes diesel-electric straddle carriers, RTGs, reach stackers, empty container handlers, forklifts, and terminal tractors.

The newly ordered hybrid straddle carriers mark a regional milestone, as they will be the first of their kind to be deployed in Southern Africa. Of the 16 units, 12 are designated for the Port Elizabeth Container Terminal, while the remaining four will operate at the Cape Town Container Terminal.

Dean Moodley, general manager of capital projects at TPT, said, “We are committed to continuously improving efficiency and sustainability at all our port terminals, and hybrid straddle carriers have an important role to play in supporting this commitment. The new machines will enable us to significantly reduce fuel consumption, noise and carbon emissions all while enhancing operational excellence. Kalmar continues to be one of our valued partners in the renewal of our cargo-handling fleet.”

Karri Keskinen, head of global sales, horizontal transportation at Kalmar, added, “Kalmar is a true partner for TPT, supporting their journey towards more sustainable and cost-efficient cargo handling operations. We have built a strong supplier-customer relationship over many years of working together. We are delighted that TPT has chosen our proven hybrid technology to future-proof their port terminal operations.”