Robert Allan Ltd. has signed a contract to draw up a new AmpRA 2900-CL battery-electric ship-assist tug series for Cheoy Lee Shipyards Ltd. in Hong Kong.

The Canadian naval architecture firm announced the agreement on 8 May. The AmpRA 2900-CL will have escort capability and a battery capacity of up to around 7 MWh.

In daily service, the harbour craft will rely on electric power. Two onboard generators are planned to extend the operating range and support delivery voyages.

The installed power package is expected to give the AmpRA 2900-CL a bollard pull of up to 70 tonnes.

Robert Allan noted that the project builds on its existing relationship with Cheoy Lee.

Vancouver-based Robert Allan is an independent naval architecture and marine engineering firm established in 1928, with work centred on commercial craft and a particular focus on the international tug market.

Cheoy Lee Shipyards provides shipbuilding and repair services in Hong Kong, covering commercial steel and aluminium vessels, pleasure craft and GRP workboats.