In the quest for greener and smarter port operations, a recent study published in the journal ‘Future Transportation’ (formerly known as ‘Future Transport’) offers some compelling insights. Led by Caterina Malandri from the University of Bologna’s Department of Civil, Chemical, Environmental and Materials Engineering (DICAM), the research delves into the operational and environmental impacts of transitioning from traditional diesel-powered tractors to battery electric and automated electric guided tractors in Roll-on/Roll-off (Ro-Ro) port terminals.
The study, which simulated a full vessel turnaround at the Ro-Ro terminal of the Port of Ravenna in Italy, compared three scenarios: Internal Combustion Engine (ICE) tractors, Battery Electric Tractors (BET), and Automated Electric Guided Tractors (e-AGT). The results were quite telling. Both BET and e-AGT configurations showed significant reductions in emissions compared to ICE, with cuts of up to 40%. However, the e-AGT scenario also revealed some operational challenges, including increased unloading time and reduced fleet availability due to charging constraints and routing limitations.
Malandri emphasized the need for integrated planning, stating, “Our findings highlight the environmental potential of automation and electrification, but also emphasize the need for integrated planning of fleet size, charging infrastructure, and circulation specifications.”
For maritime professionals, the study underscores the potential of electric and automated tractors to reduce emissions and enhance sustainability in port operations. However, it also serves as a cautionary tale, highlighting the need for careful planning and consideration of operational impacts.
The commercial implications are significant. Port authorities and logistics operators looking to decarbonize and automate their operations can use this study as a decision-support tool. The framework proposed by Malandri and her team can help evaluate alternative handling technologies under realistic conditions, ensuring that the transition to greener and smarter operations is smooth and efficient.
In the words of Malandri, “The proposed framework provides a replicable decision-support tool for port authorities and logistics operators to evaluate alternative handling technologies under realistic conditions.” This tool could be a game-changer for the maritime sector, helping to drive the transition towards more sustainable and efficient port operations.
As the maritime industry continues to grapple with the challenges of decarbonization and automation, studies like this one provide valuable insights and practical tools to navigate the transition. The path to greener and smarter port operations is not without its challenges, but with careful planning and the right tools, it is a journey well worth undertaking.