On May 23, NYK unveiled Japan's first fully battery-driven work vessel,* which the company has named “e-Crea” (pronounced “éclair” for its visual resemblance to the French pastry). Keihin Dock Co. Ltd. (“Keihin Dock”, Yokohama City, Kanagawa Prefecture), an NYK Group company, built the vessel at its Koyasu Shipyard.
Designed without an onboard diesel generator, e-Crea will support the docking and undocking of tugboats at the Koyasu Shipyard. Leveraging the knowledge gained through its construction, the NYK Group is committed to advancing the social implementation of new technologies to realize low- and zero-carbon vessel operations.
Background and Development
In response to the growing global demand for decarbonizing maritime transportation, the NYK Group has been actively exploring next-generation fuels, including ammonia and other advanced alternatives. Fully electric work vessels represent one of the most promising options for sustainable shipping. Keihin Dock, NYK's sole shipbuilding subsidiary, has spearheaded this initiative, driving innovative solutions and accelerating the implementation of new technologies.
e-Crea
Key Features of e-Crea
1. Fully electric propulsion
Powered solely by batteries charged from shore facilities at Keihin Dock's Koyasu Shipyard, e-Crea operates without emitting carbon dioxide. Additionally, the vessel is significantly quieter compared to conventional ships running on fossil fuels, substantially reducing operational noise.
2. Compact design
Measuring approximately nine meters in length, e-Crea efficiently consolidates all essential equipment within its compact hull. This design enables exceptional maneuverability in confined spaces, making it ideally suited for assisting with docking operations and vessel movement at shipyards.
Overcoming Technical Challenges
• Weight increase and hull balance
Following the installation of the electric propulsion system, including substantial battery modules in the hull, the vessel's weight exceeded initial projections. To maintain proper balance, the team reconfigured equipment placement and cabling, thereby optimizing internal space and ensuring safe, stable navigation.
e-Crea in construction
• Temperature management
Elevated temperatures from batteries and electric motors can increase fire risks. To effectively manage heat, the team implemented multi-layered water-cooling systems and integrated air ducts. Enhancements to the battery room included fireproofing measures and protection against hazardous gases, along with improved ventilation. These measures ensure the vessel upholds robust safety standards.
Outlook
Introducing fully electric propulsion systems to tugboats and work vessels is expected to accelerate decarbonization efforts not only at the vessel level but throughout maritime and port services. The NYK Group remains committed to advancing and refining electrification technologies, including their gradual application to larger-scale vessels. Data and insights gained from e-Crea's construction and operation will be reflected in the development of an electric-propulsion tugboat scheduled for completion in December 2026. (See related information.) These initiatives reaffirm NYK's commitment to energy-saving innovations and next-generation solutions that reduce greenhouse gas emissions.
Vessel Overview
- Name: e-Crea
Derived from “electricity” (e) and the Latin word “creare” (to create), reflecting Keihin Dock's slogan of “Create, Construct, and Enjoy.” The vessel's name is pronounced “éclair” for its visual resemblance to the French pastry.
- LOA: approx. 9.0 m
- Breadth: approx. 3.0 m
- Depth: approx. 1.7 m
- Crew Capacity: up to 14 persons
- Intended Use: Supporting tugboat docking, undocking, and vessel movement
- Propulsion System: Fully electric (battery-charging system)
- Builder: Keihin Dock
- Classification: Japan Craft Inspection Organization (JCI)
- Owner: NYK
- Operator: Keihin Dock
Source: Nippon Yusen Kaisha