Svitzer orders world’s first battery-methanol tug from Uzmar shipyard

The new escort tug is set to perform over 90% of its operations using its battery-electric powertrain, contributing to up to 25% of Svitzer’s total workload at the Port of Gothenburg. Thanks to the TRAnsverse design, the battery-powered tug will achieve greater efficiency compared to traditional internal combustion engine tugs.

Designed in collaboration with naval architects Robert Allan Ltd, the tug will measure 34.9 meters in length, offering exceptional stability and capacity. It will deliver a bollard pull ahead of 85 tonnes and leverage escort steering and braking forces of 150 and 200 tonnes, respectively, at speeds of 10 knots. With a gross tonnage of approximately 806 tonnes and a top speed of 14 knots, the tug is expected to set new standards in performance and sustainability.

Svitzer’s commitment to exploring alternative power solutions aligns with ongoing advancements in battery and methanol technologies. The combination of battery power and methanol engines will provide safe, efficient, and reliable operations in Gothenburg, a location already equipped with the necessary shore power infrastructure and methanol bunkering facilities.

The Port of Gothenburg, aiming to become the world’s most sustainable port, is an ideal home for this pioneering tug. The port’s significant investments in shore power charging capabilities and existing methanol bunkering services ensure the tug’s long-term operational viability.

Kasper Nilaus, CEO of Svitzer, commented: “Battery solutions are becoming an essential component of the sustainability transition. This new battery-methanol tug will introduce a new dynamic to our operations, adding another tool in our decarbonisation toolkit. There is no single solution for achieving our ambitious decarbonisation goals, but this vessel demonstrates another meaningful step toward reducing emissions across our global operations while ensuring sustainable, safe, and reliable marine services for our customers.”

Gareth Prowse, head of decarbonisation at Svitzer, highlighted the importance of this development: “This first-of-its-kind newbuild with Uzmar Shipyard marks a major milestone in our decarbonisation journey. Working with our technology suppliers and engineering partners, we have developed a tug that will allow us to serve the Port of Gothenburg with significantly reduced carbon emissions while maintaining the highest safety and operational standards.”

A. Noyan Altug, CEO of Uzmar, added: “This collaboration with Svitzer has allowed us to deliver one of the most advanced tugs in the global fleet, utilizing the latest technologies and specifications. At Uzmar, we are fully aligned with Svitzer’s ambitious decarbonisation strategy, and this project is a significant step in that direction. By integrating state-of-the-art technology and sustainable practices, we are not just building a tug – we are shaping the future of green maritime operations.”