Forth Ports Group invests in 14 new Kalmar straddle carriers

Cargotec has secured an order for 14 Kalmar straddle carriers from UK based Forth Ports as part of a major investment and upgrade program at its London Container Terminal (LCT) at Tilbury.

Forth Ports is investing in substantial equipment and site upgrading to LCT to ensure customers continue to receive a first rate and enhanced service. It is also integrating LCT with the busy short-sea terminal, also located at Tilbury. Part of the investment plan is the purchase of 14 new Kalmar ESC 450W straddle carriers from Cargotec.

“We are confident of delivering a highly efficient and positive experience for our customers.  We are delighted to work with Kalmar on this straddle carrier deal, which is the first step of many in the modernization and upgrading of LCT,” said Stuart Wallace, divisional director of LCT at the Port of Tilbury.

LCT handles in excess of half a million containers per year and is the only UK port servicing both deep sea and short sea customers. LCT is located on the Thames and is a key shipping and distribution location with access to London and the South East.

“We are pleased to be working again with the Forth Ports group, and in particular London Container Terminal, to deliver 14 new Kalmar straddle carriers, allowing the terminal to become totally integrated across its short sea and deep sea operations with regards to its straddle fleet. This delivery, scheduled for April next year, will further increase the number of Kalmar carriers at the terminal at what is an exciting development time for London Container Terminal,” said Ismo Leppänen, managing director of Cargotec UK Ltd.

Kalmar ESC 450W straddle carrier’s 7+ generation models combine high performance and productivity with low maintenance and operating costs. Designed with operators in mind, they deliver strong environmental benefits which can be further enhanced with hybrid operation. The machines are equipped with Kalmar’s standard W-type front cabin complete for container handling with 4-high stacking and 50-tonne load capacity.