Philippine Port Now Uses All-Electric Transfer Vehicle Fleet

Last Updated on: 1st August 2025, 12:13 am

Pioneering Green Ports with The Country’s First All-Electric ITV fleet

The Manila South Harbor just got a jolt in its operations with the entry of the country’s first fleet of 15 electric internal transfer vehicles (eITVs) to be operated by Asian Terminals Inc. (ATI). As of this writing, all fifteen of the electric ITVs are in full operation, replacing all the diesel-powered trucks. 

Dubai-based DP World, ATI’s strategic foreign equity partner, led the charge to electrification of the port. It has made its footprint in many ports globally and aims to establish rapid-charging infrastructure, with a strong commitment to environmental stewardship and operational efficiency at sea, land and airports.

The eITVs were launched last July 16, and are valued at approximately P120 million (US$2.1 million). This investment signifies a major step in ATI’s ambitious goal to fully decarbonize its landside fleet of port vehicles by 2030. These eITVs, supplied by the renowned Chinese OEM Sany Heavy Industry Co., Ltd., are engineered to seamlessly transport containers between vessels and the container yard.

Each vehicle is powered by a robust 182 kW battery, enabling around 14 hours of continuous operation on a single charge. To minimize downtime and maximize productivity, a dedicated rapid-charging station allows the eITVs to be fully recharged in approximately 45 minutes.

This deployment follows a rigorous one-year technical and safety evaluation conducted by the expert engineering teams of both DP World and ATI. The thorough assessment ensured the eITVs’ suitability for the demanding operational environment of Manila South Harbor, guaranteeing both efficiency and safety in their day-to-day use.

The benefits of transitioning to an all-electric eITV fleet are multifaceted.

Environmentally, the elimination of diesel-powered vehicles will significantly reduce carbon emissions and improve air quality within and around the port area. This aligns perfectly with the global push towards greener logistics and supports the Philippine government’s own initiatives for sustainable development. Operationally, the eITVs are expected to contribute to faster container movement, reduced vessel turnaround times, and an overall boost in terminal productivity. Their quieter operation can also lead to a more conducive working environment for port personnel.

“This is a significant leap not only for DP World, but also for the Philippines as we continue to work with our partner, ATI, and local authorities to further power economic growth for the country. We are proud to align this new chapter to our sustainability journey by investing in next-generation terminal equipment that operates on clean energy with zero emissions,” Glen Hilton, CEO & Managing Director, Asia Pacific, DP World, commented:

“This deployment of the first complete eITV fleet in the Philippines is a testament to ATI’s and DP World’s shared vision for a sustainable and efficient future for our ports,” Hilton added. “We are proud to be at the forefront of this green transition, paving the way for a more environmentally responsible port industry in the country.”

The initiative is strongly supported by the Philippine Ports Authority (PPA), recognizing its contribution to the modernization and sustainability of the country’s key maritime infrastructure. The move is strategically aligned with DP World’s broader global decarbonization roadmap, which targets a substantial 42% reduction in carbon emissions by 2030 and achieving net-zero operations by 2050.

Adding another layer to their sustainability efforts, Manila South Harbor already sources approximately 95% of its power from renewable energy, with plans to achieve 100% renewable energy coverage in the near future. This commitment to clean energy sources further amplifies the positive environmental impact of the newly deployed eITV fleet.

ATI has ambitious plans to further electrify its landside equipment, including rubber-tired gantry cranes, side loaders, reach stackers, and forklifts.

The successful deployment of the eITV fleet serves as a crucial milestone in their journey towards operating a fully decarbonized port vehicle fleet by 2030, setting a benchmark for other ports in the Philippines and the region to follow. This pioneering move by ATI and DP World not only enhances operational efficiency but also underscores the growing importance of environmental responsibility in the global logistics and maritime sector.