The maritime industry is in search of economically viable technology solutions to enable carbon-free shipping. Tugboats, the workhorses and unsung heroes of port industry, represent the sweet spot for concept testing and early adoption of all-electric powertrain powered by battery and hydrogen fuel cell for a number of reasons:
– Tugboats are relatively small and multi-purpose heavy duty vessels ubiquitous in shipping industry;
– Tugboats have have an extreme power/tonnage-ratio;
– Tugboats are highly maneuverable vessels that are required to provide thrust in any direction, a requirement easily achievable with all electric powertrain and flexible propulsion system powered by individual electric motors;
– Tugboats mostly operate within short distance from shore, in very close proximity to port and urban areas.
The report examines economic viability and adoption market scenario of all-electric powertrain tugboats powered by battery and hydrogen fuel cell.
