US welcomes its first fully electric tugboat

The tugboat, which was designed by Crowley’s engineering services team, will operate with zero emissions while providing the complete performance capabilities of a traditional tug.

The eWolf the first all-electric, battery-powered harbour tug  built and operated in the US

“The eWolf will provide services through its advanced vessel control technology and first-in-class energy features, while providing the safety, quality and reliability that Crowley and our mariners are known for,” said James Fowler, Senior Vice President and General Manager of Crowley Shipping. “We are thrilled to reach this important achievement for our company and the US maritime industry through the collaboration with our partners.”

The tug, constructed by Master Boat Builders at its shipyard in Coden, Alabama, will generate 178 tonnes less of nitrogen oxide (NOx), 2.5 tonnes less of diesel particulate matter and 3,100 metric tonnes less of carbon dioxide (CO2) over the first 10 years of its operations.

The vessel is powered by an ABB integrated electrical propulsion system.

After transport and final demonstration trials, the 25-metres harbour tug will operate at the Port of San Diego upon completion of Crowley’s microgrid shoreside charging station. Harbour operations are expected to begin in spring 2024.

Related:SAAM Towage to deploy its first electric tugboats

The project partners include the Port, San Diego County Air Pollution Control District, the California Air Resources Board (CARB), the US EPA and the US Maritime Administration.