Global towage company Svitzer has announced a contract with Turkish shipyard Uzmar to construct the world’s first battery-methanol powered tug. This cutting-edge vessel will be based on Svitzer’s innovative TRAnsverse tug design, featuring a 6MWh battery system backed by dual fuel methanol engines for extended range and backup power.

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.