PaxOcean Group and ABB’s collaboration on Singapore’s first fully electric tug has reached a significant project milestone, with the vessel completing commissioning ahead of its expected deployment in April 2026.
Built by PaxOcean Group, a subsidiary of Singapore-based Kuok Maritime Group, the 50t BP PXO-ACE-1 features an integrated electric propulsion system from ABB for emission-free harbour operations. With the Maritime and Port Authority of Singapore (MPA) requiring all newbuild harbour craft to be fully electric or compatible with B100 biofuels or net-zero fuels by 2030, the new vessel marks the first step towards the electrification of the city-state’s 1,600-plus harbour vessels. In addition to helping improve local air quality, battery-driven vessels can substantially reduce onboard noise and vibrations compared to diesel-powered crafts, resulting in a healthier working environment for crew.
As the core of PXO-ACE-1’s power and control system, ABB’s Onboard DC Grid with PEMS power and energy management system will enable the e-tug to make optimal use of its 3MWh battery pack to support variations in power demand, including instant high torque. The modular and customisable Onboard DC Grid is designed to facilitate battery integration and reduce the number of energy conversions between different sources and loads, thereby optimising drivetrain efficiency while extending operating range per battery charge.
Tan Thai Yong, PaxOcean Group CO and MD, said: “Developing Singapore’s first fully electric tug is a significant achievement and an important step in advancing maritime decarbonisation. 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 division, added: “We are proud to be part of this ground-breaking project for Singapore, supporting the world’s maritime capital in its journey towards fully electric harbour 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.”
Image: PaxOcean Group and ABB collaborate on Singapore’s first electric tug (credit: PaxOcean Group)
