Hyster hydrogen fuel cell-powered ReachStacker recognized in 2025 BIG Innovation Awards

Hyster announces recognition of its hydrogen fuel cell-powered (HFC) ReachStacker as a transformative product in the 2025 BIG Innovation Awards. The Hyster® HFC ReachStacker is currently functioning as part of a pilot program at the Port of Valencia, Spain – the first ReachStacker application in Europe using HFC technologies for container handling equipment in real operating conditions. Since 2011, Business Intelligence Group has recognized trailblazing individuals, companies and products across industries that are revolutionizing the world with bold innovation.

The HFC-powered ReachStacker is an innovative, zero-emission solution that uses a hydrogen fuel cell engine to convert hydrogen into electricity. This alternative to traditional internal combustion engine-powered (ICE) equipment represents a step forward in enabling the decarbonization of ports. It offers reduced greenhouse gas emissions, noise pollution and operating costs compared to conventional ICE-powered container handlers.

“With supply chains accounting for more than 90% of most organizations’ greenhouse gas emissions, ports play an important role in meeting emissions reduction targets,” says Lucien Robroek, President, Technology Solutions, Hyster. “The data we are collecting in the Port of Valencia pilot is a critical step to push the boundaries of what electrified container handling equipment can do, and recognition by the BIG Innovation Awards further validates these efforts.”

Terminals have traditionally relied on diesel power for their fleets of vehicles, cranes and container handlers as they are required to carry heavy loads continuously with minimal downtime. But electric alternatives that produce zero tailpipe emissions are gaining traction for container handling applications. The HFC-powered ReachStacker can lift laden containers with similar performance to a diesel counterpart and handle intense duty cycles with long run times. Hydrogen is stored on board the ReachStacker in high-pressure tanks which can be refilled in 10-15 minutes and provide enough energy for up to 10 hours of continuous runtime.

The BIG Innovation Award identifies and recognizes organizations devoted to bringing new ideas to life. Judged by a panel of experienced business leaders and executives, the award honors those dedicated to paving a way for products, services, experiences and solutions based on creativity, measurable results and overall impact.