The Port of San Diego has recently introduced the first commercially available, large-capacity electric forklift manufactured in the United States into its operations. This move marks a significant step towards the port’s commitment to sustainability and net-zero emissions. The Wiggins Yard eBull battery electric forklift, with a capacity of lifting up to 55,000 pounds (approximately 25 metric tons), stands as one of the largest electric forklifts in the country.
Equipped with over 100 kWh of onboard energy storage, the eBull electric forklift is designed to support eight-hour shifts with Level 2 charging and can extend to double shifts with the use of DC fast charging. As part of the initial phase, the Port of San Diego has completed the installation of the necessary electrical infrastructure to support the operation of the eBull electric forklift, although it has not specified the type of charging stations installed.
This initiative is part of a broader strategy by the Port of San Diego to deploy six net-zero pieces of construction equipment over the next 12 to 18 months. SSA Marine, a leading global logistics company, has partnered with the Port of San Diego to demonstrate the potential and long-term benefits of zero-emissions equipment within a marine terminal environment.
The investment in the electric forklift was supported by California’s Clean Off-Road Equipment (CORE) voucher program, highlighting the state’s efforts to encourage the adoption of clean technology in industrial and logistical settings. This endeavor not only underscores the port’s dedication to environmental stewardship but also sets a benchmark for the integration of sustainable practices in port operations across the United States.
Credits:
- Electrek, “The Port of San Diego just deployed one of the largest electric forklifts in the US”, Electrek article.