Singapore is steadily advancing toward operating the world’s largest automated port with the Tuas mega port project. Since launching in September 2022, the port has already handled 10 million containers, with plans to ramp up capacity to an astounding 65 million containers per year in the 2040s.
This massive, fully automated facility is expected to transform global shipping logistics by consolidating Singapore’s existing ports, reducing inter-terminal haulage, and significantly cutting greenhouse gas emissions.
At the heart of Tuas port’s automation is a sophisticated command center where human operators remotely oversee port activities through an advanced digital twin—a real-time virtual replica of the facility. The terminal runs a fleet of over 200 electric Automated Guided Vehicles (AGVs), designed to autonomously transport shipping containers at speeds of 15.5 mph (25 km/h).
These AGVs, manufactured by companies like Gaussin, can carry loads of up to 65 tons and use RFID-based navigation to ensure precise positioning and collision avoidance. Nikkei Asia’s Fumika Sato recently toured the port and noted that human workers were barely visible, with driverless yellow AGVs efficiently handling operations.
The port’s AGVs are powered by a central fleet management system and boast an impressive 6-hour runtime on a 20-minute charge. Their always-on communication technology ensures continued operation, even in case of network failures.
The Maritime and Port Authority of Singapore is set to further digitize Tuas port with a Next-Generation Vessel Traffic Management System, integrating AI and satellite tracking to monitor terminal traffic in real-time. As expansion continues, PSA Singapore, the port operator, plans to double the AGV fleet, adding over 200 more autonomous vehicles.
A key highlight of Tuas port is its commitment to sustainability. The electrified fleet and equipment are projected to cut carbon emissions by 50% compared to traditional diesel-powered machinery. Additionally, the facility incorporates a smart grid management system, and its buildings are designed to consume 60% less electricity than similar-sized structures. Solar energy generation will further contribute to the port’s goal of achieving net-zero energy consumption.
Tuas port commenced operations with just three berths in 2022 and has since expanded to eight berths, employing 500 workers. In 2024, Singapore’s ports collectively handled 41.12 million TEUs (twenty-foot equivalent units)—a figure trailing Shanghai’s record 50 million TEUs. However, once Tuas reaches full capacity, it will surpass Shanghai’s numbers, handling 65 million TEUs at a single terminal.
Source: PSA Singapore