shunting

Our subsidiary, Hanseatisches Bahn Contor GmbH (HBC), has been using hybrid switching locomotives in the Port of Hamburg since 2020. They are powered by electric motors. Electricity is supplied by a diesel generator that runs only when power is needed. While idle, the locomotives can be connected to the power grid via a cable. The goal of the transition was to reduce fuel consumption, emissions, and noise during shunting operations. The purchase was subsidized by the Hamburg Investment and Development Bank (IFB).

HBC is also a member of the RAMONA (Nordhafen Shunting Model) shunting cooperative. Several shunting service providers in the Port of Hamburg collaborate on rail operations through this initiative. This helps avoid empty runs by shunting locomotives and enables the shared use of locomotives, terminals, and train paths.