In San Diego port, US shipowner Crowley has christened the ‘eWolf’, the first US all-electric ship assist harbour tugboat, designed to operate sustainably and with zero emissions.
The eWolf delivers high-power capability alongside safety and efficiency. The name comes from a tug in the company’s initial fleet, the Sea Wolf, which operated more than 100 years ago in California.
Tom Crowley, Chairman and CEO said: “The eWolf is a historic milestone in the maritime industry and Crowley’s legacy, and underscores our company’s commitment to serve as global sustainability leaders and innovators. The all-electric tugboat is the most technologically advanced vessel of its kind, and eWolf will help our customers and communities reach their decarbonisation goals while delivering capabilities that strengthen our vital supply chain. We congratulate the people whose tireless dedication brought the eWolf to fruition with our partners at the federal, state and local government, setting a new standard not just in America, but globally.”
Frank Urtasun, Port of San Diego Chairman said: “Crowley’s first-of-its-kind electric tugboat is a game changer. It checks all the boxes by providing environmental, economic, and operational benefits for our communities and maritime industry. This is truly a story of teamwork and collaboration. We are proud to work with Crowley and our state and local partners on this and other electrification initiatives at and around our port, including electric cargo handling equipment like our all-electric mobile harbour cranes, our microgrid, vessel shore power, and more.”
Built by Master Boat Builders, the 25m vessel delivers 70t of bollard pull, more than its conventional predecessor. It features a fully integrated electrical package for battery energy storage by ABB with advanced safety technology. eWolf is supported by a new microgrid shoreside charging station that enables the tug to operate at full performance daily on electricity.
California Air Resources Board (CARB) board member Diane Takvorian said: “CARB is proud to partner on this historic effort that will reduce air and climate pollution. Impacted Portside communities, like Barrio Logan and National City, breathe more diesel pollution than 90% of California communities and children experience up to five times more asthma hospitalisations. “The eWolf will contribute significantly to creating a healthy environment for all communities.”
Jack Shu, San Diego County Air Pollution Control District Governing Board Chair said: “SDAPCD is proud to have provided funding for the eWolf project, a ground-breaking initiative aimed at transitioning from traditional diesel-powered vessels to electric propulsion systems. The eWolf exemplifies how collaboration between government and private partners can drive meaningful change, contributing significantly to a cleaner, healthier environment for everyone.”
Image: Crowley’s all-electric ‘eWolf’ tug (credit: Crowley Maritime)
