PaxOcean Group and ABB have announced a significant milestone in their collaboration on Singapore’s first fully electric tug, PXO-ACE-1, which has completed its commissioning phase. The vessel, featuring ABB’s integrated electric propulsion system, is set to be deployed in April 2026 as part of Singapore’s harbour craft electrification strategy.
The PXO-ACE-1, built by PaxOcean Group, a subsidiary of Kuok Maritime Group, is a 50-tonne bollard pull tug designed for efficient, emission-free operations. This development aligns with the Maritime and Port Authority of Singapore’s mandate for all new harbour craft to be fully electric or compatible with B100 biofuels or net-zero fuels by 2030. The electric tug aims to improve local air quality and reduce onboard noise and vibrations, enhancing the working environment for crew members.
ABB’s Onboard DC Grid™ and PEMS™ power and energy management system are central to the tug’s operation, enabling optimal use of its three-megawatt-hour battery pack. This system supports wide variations in power demand, including instant high torque, and optimises drivetrain efficiency.
Tan Thai Yong, Managing Director and CEO of PaxOcean Group, stated, “Developing Singapore’s first fully electric tug is a significant achievement and an important step in advancing maritime decarbonisation.” Olli Tuunainen, ABB’s Local Business Line Manager, added, “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.”
This project is expected to serve as a blueprint for further electrification efforts in Singapore and across Asia.
