Japanese shipping company Asahi Tanker Co., Ltd. revealed plans to build the world’s first two zero-emission electric tankers. These are scheduled to enter Tokyo Bay as marine fuel supply vessels.
The vessel specifications will use the “e5 tanker” planned designed by e5 Laboratories, Inc. Building is expected from March 2022 to March 2023.
The vessel design is a pure battery tanker powered by large-capacity lithium-ion batteries. Electrification of the ship’s core energy system can achieve zero emissions of CO2, NOx, SOx, thus reducing environmental impact.
In addition, the adoption of various digital tools, including various automation equipment and the Internet of Things (IoT), is expected to reduce burden for crew onboard work and improve operating efficiency.
Under this project, Asahi Tanker Co., Ltd. and e5 Laboratory Co. will work to improve both the environment and the crew’s working conditions, which are urgent issues for coastal shipping.