Alabama’s Coden Shipyard, a small, family-owned property, was the construction site of the first fully electric ship assist harbor tug boat ever produced within the United States.
The eWolf, as the boat is known, was constructed by Master Boat Builders at its shipyard in Coden, in south Alabama. The tug was designed by Crowley, a U.S. maritime, energy and logistics solutions company.
“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,” said Garrett Rice, president of Master Boat Builders. “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.”
According to the EPA, the tug boat will operate with zero emissions and generate 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) over the first 10 years of its operations – the equivalent of removing 350,000 gallons of gas from use.
“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.”
After transport and final demonstration trials, the 82-foot harbor tug will operate at the Port of San Diego.
Austen Shipley is a staff writer for Yellowhammer News.
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