More than 100 charging operations per day are handled by the two SLS201.401 systems installed at the terminal. The infrastructure is designed for 24/7 use and optimized for durability and minimal maintenance. Key technical features include:
Design: Inverted Pantograph (top-down solution)
Operation: Fully automated contact process (using spring force to establish the contact and compensate vehicle movements)
Vehicle detection: Integrated positioning sensors for precise alignment
Power transmission: High-current transfer (up to 1.200A) suitable for fast charging cycles
Charging duration: Rapid energy transfer during short operational stops (e.g. container drop-off)
Thanks to its robust mechanical design, the system withstands dust, and weather exposure like salty air – ideal for outdoor marine terminal environments.
The inverted design offers critical operational and engineering advantages over conventional plug-based or onboard charging solutions:
No space required on the vehicle for heavy connectors or charging hardware
Fewer wear components on mobile equipment
Short cycle times and automated recharging during natural process pauses
Low maintenance and increased system availability
Safe operation through automated contact initiation and integrated safety logic
This makes the SLS201.401 a preferred choice for ports looking to electrify terminal vehicles without compromising operational performance.
Each all-electric straddle carrier saves approximately 125 metric tons of CO₂ per year compared to diesel-powered models. In addition to reducing the carbon footprint, the system eliminates tailpipe emissions, including nitrogen oxides and fine particulates—resulting in cleaner air for terminal workers and surrounding communities.
This deployment supports APM Terminals’ broader sustainability target: to achieve net zero operations by 2030. Smart charging technology is a key enabler on that path.
The system is modular and scalable, allowing future expansion of charging points without vehicle modifications. The pantograph integrates with standard fleet management and terminal control systems, enabling seamless fleet electrification.
The SLS201.401 offers a technically mature, field-tested, and fully automated solution for ports seeking to decarbonize container handling operations. The technology is adaptable to other terminal vehicles such as reach stackers, terminal tractors, and AGVs.
The implementation of Schunk’s inverted pantograph at Pier 400 marks a major step forward for electric cargo handling in North America. It proves that automated, high-frequency charging is technically viable in high-throughput port environments.
Together with partners Kalmar and APM Terminals, Schunk is enabling the transition to emission-free port logistics—with reliable charging systems built for industrial performance.
Parasitic shaft currents are among the most common causes of bearing damage in electric drive systems. Inadequate grounding can lead to costly failures – in rail transport, industrial production facilities, and electric mobility alike. The Schunk Group addresses this challenge with a comprehensive portfolio of grounding systems, ranging from traditional grounding contacts to innovative carbon-based solutions.
Electric vehicles are rapidly gaining momentum, increasing the demand for reliable and efficient technologies. Power modules play a pivotal role in this context, particularly in motor drives and battery charging systems. Dr. Jürgen Reinke, Head of Process Technology at Schunk Sonosystems, and Dr. Urs Bürgi, an expert in automation and precision at Infotech, explain the importance of these technologies and highlight innovations developed in collaboration with Infotech.