Japan’s First Eco-Friendly Tugboat Enters Service

Yesterday, Wing Maritime Service Corporation held a ceremony in Yokohama Port to mark the entry into service of the NYK Group’s tugboat “Tsubasa”(Gross Tonnage: 256 tons) featuring a hybrid propulsion system. A tour of the “Tsubasa” was also held on the same day and was attended by Yokohama deputy mayor Nobuya Suzuki and a number of other guests. After the tour, the vessel was presented with a video provided by the tugboat builder Keihin Dock Co. Ltd. and Niigata Power Systems Co.Ltd.

Since March 15, “Tsubasa” has been used in towing operations which help large vessels get into and out of ports, mainly at the port of Yokohama and Kawasaki. She is equipped with a motor generator and high-performance rechargeable batteries in addition to conventional diesel engines. Capable of operating solely on her diesel engines or on her electric-motors depending upon the operating power needed, a fuel-efficient and low CO2 emission performance is achieved. In addition, the batteries can be charged not only by the onboard power generator, but also via electric-power from land. With these environmentally-friendly features, the new tugboat is expected to emit 20 per cent fewer CO2 emissions in a port.

“Tsubasa” is owned and operated by the NYK Group Company, Wing Maritime Service Corporation. She was built by the NYK Group’s tugboat builder Keihin Dock Co. Ltd. and Niigata Power Systems Co.Ltd. Niigata Power Systems developed and manufactured the hybrid propulsion system.

The NYK Group continually strives through the Group-wide efforts to involve itself in measures that reduce the environmental impact of port facilities and marine vessels.

[mappress]

NYK, March 28, 2013