Svitzer has signed a contract with the Turkish shipyard Uzmar to construct the world’s first battery-methanol powered tugboat, based on Svitzer’s TRAnsverse tug design.
This new tug will feature a 6MWh battery, supplemented by dual-fuel methanol engines for backup and extended range. It is expected to perform over 90% of its operations using its battery-electric powertrain, significantly reducing emissions. Designed with naval architect Robert Allan Ltd., the 34.9-meter-long tug will deliver 85 tonnes of bollard pull and use advanced steering and braking forces.
The new vessel will be deployed in the Port of Gothenburg, which is investing in the necessary infrastructure, such as shore power charging and methanol bunkering facilities, to support this green initiative.
Svitzer sees the project as a crucial part of its decarbonization strategy, with CEO Kasper Nilaus highlighting that battery technology is becoming increasingly important in achieving sustainability goals.
Gareth Prowse, Head of Decarbonisation at Svitzer, also commented on the contract saying that the launch of a first-of-its-kind newbuild project with Uzmar Shipyard is a significant milestone for their decarbonisation ambitions.
