Kotug has received an order from Rotterdam-based sand handling and transport specialist ROS for the delivery of a fully electric pusher tug. The E-Pusher, model M, will be deployed in combination with barges for emission-free sand transport between the Maasvlakte and Rotterdam.
The Kotug E-Pusher, in combination with the barges provided by Jansma Shipping, will enable zero-emission transport of sand, from loading at the Maasvlakte to unloading in Rotterdam, with further distribution via electric trucks.
The fully electric E-Pusher, developed by Kotug, is scheduled for completion in May 2025. The entire emission-free system — from transshipment to final delivery — is expected to be fully operational by August 2025.
Also read: Gebhard to supply drive system for Kotug E-Pusher with battery containers
1-MW charging station
This initiative represents a major milestone for the region, as ROS has been transitioning to zero-emission transport with previous investments in electric cranes for sand handling and the creation of a dedicated charging hub for electric trucks in Schiedam.
The next step involves establishing a 1-megawatt fast-charging station for the new electric pusher tug, which will be one of the first of its kind in Rotterdam, accelerating the city’s journey toward emission-free inland navigation.
The E-Pusher series
The E-Pusher is a modular and scalable electric pusher tug. The E-Pusher Series comprises three models (S, M and L) ranging from 9 to 22 metres in length, with a maximum draught of 0.8 to 1.35 metres, resulting in a draught that is thirty per cent less than conventional pusher tug designs. The swappable energy containers encompass Stage V diesel, (Bio)gas, Hydrogen, and battery solutions.
The E-Pusher series embodies state-of-the-art technology and cutting-edge propulsion systems, establishing a new standard in emission-free navigation. The vessels are equipped to eliminate harmful emissions, including carbon dioxide (CO2), sulphur oxides (SOx), nitrogen oxides (NOx), and particulate matter (PM).
Also read: Kotug develops zero-emission E-Pusher tug
Towards a zero-emission transport network
Ard-Jan Kooren, CEO and president of Kotug: ‘We are proud to contribute to this groundbreaking emission-free transport chain for ROS, further demonstrating Kotug’s commitment to sustainable innovation in the maritime industry. The E-Pusher is a key part of our strategy to decarbonise inland shipping, and we are excited to partner with ROS and Jansma to make zero-emission transport a reality in Rotterdam.’
This initiative is poised to set new standards for sustainable shipping in the region, catering to the growing needs of government bodies, municipalities, and large construction companies while paving the way for a future-ready, zero-emission transport network.
Picture: The E-Pusher 1 in operations for emission free cacao transport in the Amsterdam harbour (photo by Kotug).
Also read: KNVTS nominates Sparky, Canopée and E-Pusher 1 for Ship of the Year Award
