Daito Orders Second Electric Tugboat for Tokyo Bay Operations

Daito Corporation, a consolidated subsidiary of Kawasaki Kisen Kaisha (“K” LINE), has announced plans to build its second battery-electric tugboat, expanding its efforts to decarbonise harbour towage operations in Japan.

The new 260 gross ton-class electric tugboat (EV Tugboat No. 2) follows the company’s first electric tug, which is currently under construction, and is expected to serve as a standard model for future electric tugboat deployments in Tokyo Bay.

Higher-Power Electric Tug Planned for Tokyo Bay

Designed to support a broader range of towage operations, EV Tugboat No. 2 will feature a 4,400 PS electric propulsion motor, offering higher output than the 3,600 PS motor installed on EV Tugboat No. 1.

The vessel will incorporate a DC power distribution system that efficiently supplies electricity for both propulsion and onboard systems, improving overall energy management during operations.

To enhance operational flexibility, the tug will also be equipped with an auxiliary generator that can operate when battery capacity is insufficient.

Condition Monitoring System to Optimise Energy Use

The auxiliary generator will be managed using a Condition Monitoring System (CMS) that collects and analyses operational data to optimise power generation and reduce fossil fuel consumption.

According to Daito, the use of operational data will support more efficient energy management while contributing to lower emissions during harbour operations.

Project Receives Government Support

The electric tug project has been selected under Japan’s Innovative Navigation Efficiency and Transition to Non-Fossil Energy for Coastal Shipping programme, jointly administered by the Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry (METI) and the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism (MLIT).

The programme supports the development of low-carbon technologies for Japan’s coastal shipping sector.

Construction Scheduled for Completion in 2028

EV Tugboat No. 2 will be constructed by HONGAWARA SHIP YARD CO., LTD., with Kawasaki Heavy Industries supplying and integrating the propulsion and control systems.

TOA Corporation will design and install the shoreside charging infrastructure required to support the vessel’s operations.

The tug is scheduled for completion in July 2028.

Once operational, EV Tugboat No. 2 will join EV Tugboat No. 1 in providing towage services for vessels calling at Tokyo Bay ports, supporting Japan’s Carbon Neutral Ports (CNP) initiative.

Supports K LINE’s Decarbonisation Strategy

The project forms part of the “K” LINE Environmental Vision 2050 – Blue Seas for the Future, under which the group is advancing the development and deployment of low-carbon and zero-emission maritime technologies. The company said it will continue investing in environmental technologies that support the transition towards decarbonised shipping operations.