Svitzer has signed a letter of intent with Cochin Shipyard Limited (CSL) to construct a new generation of electric TRAnsverse tugboats at CSL’s yard facilities in India. It was signed during India Maritime Week in Mumbai, which ran from October 27-31.
The collaboration aims to combine Svitzer’s expertise in sustainable towage with CSL’s shipbuilding capability and the wider strength of India’s engineering talent, supply chains and innovation ecosystem.
According to Svitzer, its TRAnsverse tugs feature exceptional manoeuvrability and efficiency, precise control in confined waters, strong safety and operational performance, and reduced energy use and emissions.
Kasper Nilaus, CEO, Svitzer, said, “With this LoI we are taking a decisive step on our electrification journey. By pairing Svitzer’s nearly 200 years of towage experience with Indian engineering and manufacturing strength, we aim to deliver cleaner, safer and more efficient harbor operations for customers in India and around the world.”
Nilaus said he sees “strong alignment” with the government of India’s Maritime India Vision 2030 and Maritime Amrit Kaal Vision 2047, drafted to accelerate the growth of India’s maritime industry and position the country as a global leader.
The vessels are intended for Svitzer’s global fleet renewal and growth markets and will also create the opportunity for a locally built, innovative design to be deployed in Indian port and terminal operations.
Madhu S Nair, chairman and managing director, Cochin Shipyard Limited, commented, “We look forward to working closely with Svitzer to make plans for building the next-generation TRAnsverse tug in India. This collaboration will showcase CSL’s world class capabilities, deepen local supply chains and talent, and accelerate the availability of green, high-performance tugboats for ports at home and abroad.”
The partners state that the move represents a significant step toward the decarbonization of India’s maritime industry.
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