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Stäubli completes North America’s first mechanized large-scale port EV charging program

January 04, 2024

SSA Terminals, LLC, a joint venture with Matson Navigation Company, has commissioned 33 terminal tractors designed for zero-emission Electrical Vehicles (EVs) using fully automated high-power Quick Charging Connector (QCC) systems from Staubli Electrical Connectors.

The initiative is one of the largest mechanized charging programs for electric vehicles at active ports in the United States, with five additional units with QCCs currently being implemented at the Port of Oakland.

The project is part of a $50 million grant from the California Air Resources Board’s (CARB) Zero and Near Zero Emission Freight Facility (ZANZEFF) program, aimed at reducing emissions at freight facilities throughout California. SSA Terminals selected Australian firm Tritium to install 175kW DC High Power Chargers to power the electric terminal tractors, and Stäubli to install its QCC solution for automated, rapid charging.

Stäubli’s QCC system uses an enclosed pin-and-socket design that is self-cleaning, touch-protected on both sides of the connector, and easily corrects for misalignment. The 33 QCC systems automatically connect Tritium’s chargers to an electric receptacle on each terminal tractor, creating a safe, efficient, charging system, with zero-touch operation, allowing simultaneous charging without manual intervention.

Each QCC is power-rated over one megawatt and features UL-rated components that withstand contaminants that typically foul port equipment. The QCC system is rated up to 100,000 mating/plug-in cycles and requires little to no maintenance for an expected 20 to 30-year service life.

Dave Rababy, Head of Sales E-Mobility North America, stated, “Stäubli is grateful to SSA Marine for the opportunity to link the vehicle to the infrastructure, demonstrating innovative zero-emissions technology that will improve operational efficiencies without polluting the air in our environment.”