DP World Southampton have taken delivery of eight brand new straddle carriers as part of a multi-million pound investment and modernisation programme for the container terminal.

The new machines are more fuel efficient and can perform twin lifts which will help improve the terminal’s operations and efficiency, say the Dubai-owned company.

The arrival of these machines means that the terminal operator can retire a eight older, less fuel efficient straddle carriers.

In the last three years, DP World Southampton has decommissioned a total of 36 straddle carriers as part of its fleet renewal programme.

The aptly named Nick Loader, chief executive Officer, DP World Southampton, said: “These machines are greener and more efficient and this is important because, like all responsible businesses, we are always looking to reduce our energy consumption and carbon footprint.”

The straddle carriers arrived fully assembled on board the vessel MV Meri direct from the assembly plant in Gdynia, Poland.

The new straddle carriers will undergo testing before they enter service.