The all-electric tug eWolf.Photo:courtesy Crowley
Crowley, the US-based maritime giant, has proudly taken delivery of the nation’s first all-electric harbor tugboat, named eWolf. Crafted by Crowley’s in-house engineering team, the 82-foot eWolf is not only the first of its kind in the United States but also only the third globally.
Set to grace the waters of the Port of San Diego in spring 2024, the eWolf promises to revolutionize harbor operations. What sets this vessel apart is its commitment to zero emissions, aligning seamlessly with traditional fuel-powered tugs in terms of performance.
James Fowler, Senior Vice President and General Manager of Crowley Shipping, expressed enthusiasm, stating, “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.”
The delivery of the eWolf is a testament to Crowley’s dedication to sustainability, with a pledge to achieve net-zero greenhouse gas emissions across all scopes by 2050. The collaborative efforts between Crowley and various government partners at federal, state, and local levels have birthed this environmentally friendly marvel.
Constructed by Master Boat Builders in Alabama, the eWolf boasts an impressive reduction in pollutants over its first decade of operations. According to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), it is estimated to produce 178 tons less of nitrogen oxide, 2.5 tons less of diesel particulate matter, and 3,100 metric tons fewer carbon dioxide emissions. This reduction is equivalent to eliminating 350,000 gallons of gas consumption.
The vessel’s robust propulsion system comes courtesy of ABB, featuring a six-megawatt-hour energy storage system (ESS) for 70 short-tons of bollard pull. The battery empowers the eWolf to complete a full day’s work before requiring a recharge.
Garrett Rice, President of Master Boat Builders, emphasized the collaborative success, stating, “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.”
The project’s key partners include the Port, San Diego County Air Pollution Control District, the California Air Resources Board (CARB), the U.S. EPA, and the U.S. Maritime Administration.
Crowley’s eWolf is not just a vessel; it’s a symbol of progress, a beacon guiding the maritime industry towards a sustainable and greener future.
