PaxOcean Group and ABB have completed commissioning of Singapore’s first fully electric harbour tug, with the vessel expected to enter operational service in April 2026.

The tug, named PXO-ACE-1, has a bollard pull of 50 tonnes and was built by PaxOcean, a subsidiary of Kuok Maritime Group. It is equipped with ABB’s integrated electric propulsion and power management systems, enabling emissions-free operations within port limits.

The project forms part of Singapore’s wider harbour craft electrification programme. Under requirements set by the Maritime and Port Authority of Singapore, all newly built harbour vessels must be fully electric or compatible with B100 biofuel or net-zero fuels by 2030. More than 1,600 harbour craft currently operate in the port.

ABB's Onboard DC Grid, with its PEMS power and energy management system, forms the core of PXO-ACE-1's power and control structure. The system is designed to enable the tug to utilise its three-megawatt-hour battery pack to support variations in power demand, including instant high torque.

ABB said the modular architecture reduces energy conversion losses and supports efficient battery integration, helping extend operating range between charges.

Battery-electric propulsion also lowers onboard noise and vibration levels compared with conventional diesel tugs, improving working conditions for crew members.

Tan Thai Yong, managing director and chief executive officer of PaxOcean Group, 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."

He added: "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 for Singapore at ABB's Marine & Ports division, said: "We are proud to be part of this groundbreaking project for Singapore, supporting the world's maritime capital in its journey towards fully electric harbour operations."

He noted: "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."