PaxOcean – ABB collaboration on Singapore’s first electric tug reaches major milestone

PaxOcean Group and ABB have completed commissioning of Singapore’s first fully electric tug, marking a key project milestone ahead of the vessel’s expected entry into service in April 2026.

The tug, named PXO-ACE-1, has been built by PaxOcean Group, a subsidiary of Kuok Maritime Group. Rated at 50 tonnes bollard pull, the vessel is equipped with an integrated electric propulsion and power system supplied by ABB and is intended for emission-free harbour operations.

Electric tug aligned with Singapore harbour craft regulations

The project aligns with regulatory requirements set by the Maritime and Port Authority of Singapore (MPA), which mandate that all newbuild harbour craft be fully electric or capable of operating on B100 biofuels or net-zero fuels by 2030. PXO-ACE-1 represents an initial step towards the electrification of Singapore’s harbour craft fleet, which comprises more than 1,600 vessels.

Beyond emissions reduction, battery-powered vessels are expected to lower onboard noise and vibration levels compared with conventional diesel tugs, contributing to improved working conditions for crew.

Power and energy management architecture

At the core of the tug’s electrical architecture is ABB’s Onboard DC Grid™ combined with its PEMS™ power and energy management system. The configuration is designed to optimise the use of a three-megawatt-hour battery pack, allowing the vessel to handle wide variations in power demand, including the instant torque required during towing operations.

According to ABB, the modular DC grid architecture reduces energy conversion losses between power sources and loads, supporting higher drivetrain efficiency and extending the operating range per battery charge. The system also facilitates battery integration and supports customised vessel design.

Industry perspectives

Tan Thai Yong, Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of PaxOcean Group, said:

“Developing Singapore’s first fully electric tug is a significant achievement and an important step in advancing maritime decarbonization. ABB has supported us as the systems integrator on this project, contributing their experience in battery-powered vessels to the integration of the power, propulsion, and bridge systems on board this e-tug – a first of its kind. The operational integrity, safety, and performance of this vessel depend on reliable systems and effective integration, and ABB has delivered on both. We look forward to seeing PXO-ACE-1 in operation starting next year.”

Olli Tuunainen, Local Business Line Manager, Singapore, ABB Marine & Ports, said:

“We are proud to be part of this groundbreaking project for Singapore, supporting the world’s maritime capital in its journey towards fully electric harbor operations. Tugs are among the industry’s leading candidates for full electrification given their operational profile, relative proximity to charging infrastructure, and the operational benefits they derive from an electric drivetrain, including instant power and enhanced crew comfort. We believe that this project will provide a blueprint for further electrification in Singapore and throughout Asia.”

Key facts

• Vessel: PXO-ACE-1
• Builder: PaxOcean Group
• Bollard pull: 50 tonnes
• Propulsion: Fully electric
• Battery capacity: 3 MWh
• Power system: ABB Onboard DC Grid™ with PEMS™
• Deployment: Expected April 2026
• Location: Singapore