Konecranes AGV Milestone Reaches 1,000 Vehicles with Rotterdam Delivery
30-Second Takeaway
Konecranes has handed over its 1,000th Automated Guided Vehicle to APM Terminals Maasvlakte II in Rotterdam. The golden milestone vehicle was presented on 8 September 2026, recognising more than a decade of collaboration on automated container handling. Electrically powered AGVs transport containers between the quay and container yard, linking the terminal’s crane operations within an integrated handling system. The delivery marks a manufacturing milestone for Konecranes as Maasvlakte II continues developing its automated operations.
Konecranes AGV
A golden Automated Guided Vehicle has joined APM Terminals Maasvlakte II’s equipment fleet, marking the 1,000th AGV produced by Konecranes.
The vehicle was officially handed over at the Rotterdam terminal on 8 September 2026. Konecranes selected Maasvlakte II as the destination in recognition of the companies’ longstanding work together on automated container handling. The milestone represents Konecranes’ cumulative production, rather than the number of vehicles operating at the terminal.
The delivery highlights the role of horizontal transport in terminal automation. While cranes lift containers between vessels, vehicles and storage positions, AGVs provide the movement connecting those handling stages.
Connecting the Quay and Container Yard
At Maasvlakte II, electrically powered AGVs carry containers between the quay and container yard. Their operation forms part of a terminal concept designed around the integration of equipment, software and operating processes.
This coordination links container transport with crane activity and yard operations. The vehicles work within the wider handling system, helping move cargo through the terminal rather than operating as isolated pieces of equipment.
Konecranes and APM Terminals have continued developing both the technology and the processes supporting its use throughout their collaboration.
More Than a Decade of Cooperation
The milestone recognises a relationship built around the introduction and continued improvement of automated container handling.
APM Terminals Maasvlakte II Managing Director Harold Kunst said:
“This golden AGV symbolizes what can be achieved through long term partnership, innovation and a shared determination to keep improving.”
Konecranes Director Frank Bergsdorf described the handover as the result of years of cooperation, shared learning and technological development between the teams.
Both companies identified safety, reliability and continuous improvement as priorities for the next stage of their work together.
Automation Supports Terminal Expansion
The handover follows an earlier investment in Konecranes equipment and systems for the terminal’s expansion.
In October 2024, APM Terminals announced an order covering up to 71 additional Lift AGVs, an expansion of the management system to handle more than 140 vehicles and a third battery exchange station.
The package also included simulation software, integration and commissioning services. APM Terminals said the additional battery exchange station would help reduce vehicle travel distances, while the simulation tools would support training and testing without disrupting live operations.
That investment illustrates the broader requirements of scaling automated transport. Increasing vehicle numbers also requires sufficient charging or battery exchange capacity, coordinated controls and integration with existing terminal equipment.
About Konecranes
Konecranes is a Finnish lifting and material handling equipment manufacturer with a history linked to KONE’s industrial crane operations. It became an independent business in 1994 following the separation of those activities from KONE.
The company operates through three business areas: Service, Industrial Equipment and Port Solutions. Its industrial offering includes cranes, hoists and equipment for applications ranging from light manufacturing to demanding process operations. Port Solutions supplies container handling equipment, software and services.
Konecranes also provides maintenance and spare parts for industrial cranes and hoists from multiple manufacturers. Its digital services give customers access to maintenance information, equipment monitoring data and parts resources, supporting equipment throughout its operating life.
The company reports approximately 16,500 professionals across more than 50 countries. Its shares are listed on Nasdaq Helsinki.
Official website: www.konecranes.com
About APM Terminals Maasvlakte II
APM Terminals Maasvlakte II is an automated container terminal in the Port of Rotterdam, Netherlands. Opened in 2015, it was developed around an integrated operating model combining electric handling equipment, automated transport and remotely controlled cranes.
The terminal handles container movements between deep-sea shipping services and inland transport connections. Its facilities include dedicated rail and barge links, while its electric handling equipment is powered by renewable energy.
Maasvlakte II is undergoing a major expansion, with automated horizontal transport forming part of the additional operating capacity. Its continued investment includes vehicles, battery exchange infrastructure and control systems intended to support a larger terminal operation.
Official website: www.apmterminals.com/en/maasvlakte
Frequently Asked Questions
Who received Konecranes’ 1,000th AGV?
APM Terminals Maasvlakte II in Rotterdam received the milestone vehicle.
When was the vehicle officially handed over?
The handover took place at the terminal on 8 September 2026.
What does an AGV do at a container terminal?
An Automated Guided Vehicle transports containers between handling locations. At Maasvlakte II, AGVs move containers electrically between the quay and container yard.
Does Maasvlakte II operate 1,000 Konecranes AGVs?
The milestone refers to the 1,000th AGV produced by Konecranes across its deliveries, rather than the terminal’s fleet size.
How does the delivery relate to terminal expansion?
Automated transport is part of Maasvlakte II’s expansion strategy, supported by investment in additional vehicles, battery exchange facilities and management systems.
