Groot Ship Design has completed and delivered the concept design for the "e5 project" under development in Japan.
The project was initiated by Japan based Asahi Tanker Co, Ltd and Exeno-Yamamizu Corporation, targeting to introduce a new type of bunker vessel with zero emission electric propulsion. The first vessel is to launch in the fourth quarter of 2020. The development of “e５” coastal vessels, which would require a longer cruising range, is also part of the project.
1300 m3 Bunker Tanker
After studying the wishes of Asahi, making clear the operating profile and available technologies, a design for a 1300 m3 bunker tanker was prepared. The result is an extremely environmentally friendly design incorporating:
- High manoeuvrability, by using two azimuth trhusters and a single bow thruster
- Electric propulsion package, including battery power and a single generator set as back up facility.
- Auto mooring system for mooring alongside large vessels.
- Shore connection – charging facility.
- High level, comfortable accommodation facility.
- No ballast water required for normal daily operations.
e5 Concept
The “e５” concept creates solutions to issues such as shortage of crews, vessel demand balance and environmental regulation thus contributing to the sustainability of the domestic shipping industry.
e5 stands for:
- Electrification – The ships core energy source will be electricity, achieved by way of adopting lithium-ion batteries.
- Environment – Emission controls such as CO2, NOx, SOx together with minimising noise and vibration along with improvements in vessel operation environmental controls at sea and in port.
- Economics – Achieving economic efficiency through installment of Internet of Things (IoT) and digital tools coupled with improved propulsion performance from using electricity.
- Efficiency – Simple hull construction and installment of automated equipment can reduce work load for the crew.
- Evolution – Digitalisation and technological advancement leading to the most advanced design concept for the future of domestic shipping.
e5 Vessel Particulars
- Total length: 60.00 m
- Overall width: 10.30 m
- Propulsion machinery: 2 x 350 kW azimuth thruster, 1 x 130 kW bow thruster
- Gross tonnage: 499 tons
- Cargo tank capacity: approximately 1300 m3
- Vessel registration: Japan
- Concept designer: Groot Ship Design (Hull), Kawasaki Heavy Industries, Ltd. (Power Plant)
