DP World has deployed 55 electric yard tractors (E-YTs) at its Busan terminal in South Korea, marking a step up in its efforts to reduce emissions from terminal operations.
The new E-YTs replace Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG)-powered vehicles and account for approximately 36% of the terminal’s 154-strong yard tractor fleet. Used to move containers across the terminal, the electric tractors are expected to reduce CO₂ emissions by approximately 70% per unit compared with the LNG-powered tractors they replace.
The transition to electric equipment will also reduce the use and disposal of engine fluids, helping to minimise the risk of leaks and the environmental impact of terminal operations.
As a participant in South Korea’s Emissions Trading Scheme (ETS), DP World Busan is taking steps to reduce emissions from its operations. The deployment of E-YTs supports these efforts and is aligned with South Korea’s broader ambitions to advance low-carbon logistics and greener port operations.
In addition to the environmental benefits, the electric tractors offer quieter operation, smoother acceleration and more consistent performance during frequent stop-and-go movements. With fewer moving parts than LNG-powered tractors, they are also expected to require less maintenance, supporting equipment availability and operational efficiency.
DP World Busan plans to continue expanding the use of electric equipment as part of its longer-term efforts to reduce terminal emissions.
The deployment builds on similar electrification initiatives across DP World’s global ports and terminals, including the Port of Brisbane on Fisherman Island in Australia, Manila South Harbour in the Philippines and Laem Chabang International Terminal in Thailand. These efforts demonstrate DP World’s sustainability commitment and its broader mission to decarbonise port operations globally.
