Damen and AAAPropulsion partner on electric tug propulsion integration

Damen Shipyards Group has signed an agreement with Netherlands-based electric propulsion specialist AAAPropulsion to integrate the company’s A-Pod system into Damen’s electric tugs. The partnership will focus on testing the system’s compatibility and efficiency gains.

The A-Pod is a 360-degree azimuthing thruster with an integrated electric motor placed in the lower pod housing and cooled by seawater. AAAPropulsion states that this configuration is designed to improve propulsion efficiency.

According to Damen, the system may reduce drag and increase vessel stability due to its lower center of gravity. Following integration on electric tugs and workboats, Damen intends to evaluate extending the use of the A-Pod across additional vessel segments.

The collaboration is part of Damen’s broader electrification strategy, which includes ferries and other vessel types. These efforts are aligned with the company’s E3 program that focuses on delivering eco-friendly, efficient, and economically viable ship designs.