Singapore’s first electric tug commissioned ahead of April deployment

January 8, 2026, by Nadja Skopljak

Singapore’s first electric tug, built by PaxOcean Group and powered by ABB, has completed commissioning ahead of expected deployment in April 2026.

The fully electric tug PXO-ACE-1 is the first of its kind to be built and operated in Singapore as part of the Maritime and Port Authority of Singapore’s harbor craft electrification strategy, which requires all newbuild harbor craft to be fully electric or compatible with B100 biofuels or net-zero fuels by 2030.

“Developing Singapore’s first fully electric tug is a significant achievement and an important step in advancing maritime decarbonization,” said Tan Thai Yong, Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of PaxOcean Group.

“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. 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.”

ABB’s Onboard DC Grid with PEMS power and energy management system is said to enable the e-tug to make optimal use of its three-megawatt-hour battery pack to support wide variations in power demand, including instant high torque.

The modular and highly customizable Onboard DC Grid facilitates battery integration and reduces the number of energy conversions between different sources and loads, thereby optimizing drivetrain efficiency while extending operating range per battery charge, ABB 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 harbor operations,” said Olli Tuunainen, Local Business Line Manager, Singapore, ABB’s Marine & Ports division.

“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.”