The U.S. is getting its first all-electric ship assist harbor tugboat. Crowley, a privately held, U.S.-owned and -operated maritime, energy and logistics solutions company, has accepted delivery of the eWolf all-electric tug. Crafted by Crowley’s engineering services team, this innovative tugboat operates with zero emissions. However, the eWolf all-electric tugboat delivers the full performance capabilities of a conventional tug.

Based at the Port of San Diego

The eWolf is the result of a collaborative effort involving Crowley, federal, state, and local government partners. Together, they share a commitment to enhancing air quality by integrating battery energy into the vessel and adopting cutting-edge port technology. This includes the establishment of a shoreside microgrid charging and storage station at the Port of San Diego. Master Boat Builders, based in Coden, Alabama, constructed the tug. The boat will produce 178 tons less of nitrogen oxide (NOx), 2.5 tons less of diesel particulate matter, and 3,100 metric tons less of carbon dioxide (CO2) during its initial 10 years of operation. This reduction is equivalent to removing 350,000 gallons of gas from use, according to EPA calculations. The vessel is equipped with ABB’s cutting-edge integrated electrical propulsion system.

Cutting-Edge Tech and First-In-Class Energy Features

The all-electric tugboat is loaded with cutting-edge tech and it sports energy features not found in other boats of its kind, “The eWolf will provide services through its advanced vessel control technology and first-in-class energy features, while providing the safety, quality and reliability that Crowley and our mariners are known for,” said James Fowler, senior vice president and general manager of Crowley Shipping. “We are thrilled to reach this important achievement for our company and the U.S. maritime industry through the collaboration with our partners.” Garrett Rice, president of Master Boat Builders notes, “The eWolf demonstrates where the maritime industry can go, in terms of both innovation and sustainability, with solid partnerships between owners, designers, suppliers and shipyards. We are proud to have partnered with Crowley in the construction of the eWolf and look forward to seeing her at work in San Diego very soon.”

Harbor Operations Anticipated to Start in Spring 2024

Following transport and final demonstration trials, the 82-foot harbor tug will operate at the Port of San Diego. This will also follow completion of Crowley’s microgrid shoreside charging station. Anticipated to kick off in spring 2024, harbor operations mark a significant milestone. Project partners involved in this endeavor include the Port, San Diego County Air Pollution Control District, and the California Air Resources Board (CARB). Also, the U.S. EPA, and the U.S. Maritime Administration.

About Crowley

Crowley, a privately held, U.S.-owned and -operated company, specializes in maritime, energy, and logistics solutions. The company boasts annual revenues of $3.4 billion. Its fleet is over 170 vessels, and it employs around 7,000 employees worldwide. This makes the company a leading employer of U.S. mariners. The company has dedicated over $3.2 billion to maritime transport, a crucial component of global trade and the economy. Its a global ship owner-operator and services provider with over 130 years of innovation and a strong commitment to sustainability. Crowley serves customers in 36 nations and island territories. The company is organized into five business units: Crowley Logistics, Crowley Shipping, Crowley Solutions, Crowley Wind Services, and Crowley Fuels.