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A fleet of electric forklift trucks have arrived at the Port of Hull. 

The near £200,000 investment is part of an ongoing effort to reduce emissions and make more use of renewable energy generated on site. 

Heavily relied on plant to move cargo efficiently, historically a great deal of work has been undertaken by diesel-powered forklifts. 

The six new Linde models will be based at the retail warehouse, adjacent to Humber Container Terminal. It has a capacity to store 4,800 pallets, and it is this cargo the electric forklifts will be used to manoeuvre. 

Simon Bird, ABP Humber director, said: “Investing in ABP infrastructure, equipment and skills here on the Humber enables us to service our customers effectively and help to grow their businesses. Investing in a range of hybridised and electric machinery available across the port will serve our port operations well, as we all work to reduce emissions.”

The vehicles rechargeable batteries are easy to remove and charge within 12 hours, ensuring the vehicles are ready to go when required.

ABP is currently installing a 6.5MW £6.8 million solar array at the Port of Hull, set to be completed by contractor Custom Solar later this year. When complete the new additions will be charged from the energy supplied.

Training on the new forklifts has already begun, with operators commenting on the improved view of their cargo load and surroundings, manoeuvrability, and comfort.