ABS joined Garden Reach Shipbuilders and Engineers (GRSE) Ltd., Seatech Solutions International (Seatech) and Shift Clean Energy (Shift) in signing a memorandum of understanding (MoU) to develop electric tugboats, part of an initiative to achieve India’s goal of becoming the ‘Global Hub for Green Shipbuilding’ by 2030.

The proposed E-VOLT 50 tug aims to reduce carbon emissions, improve operational efficiency and set new benchmarks for performance and environmental sustainability in the tugboat industry.
GRSE will build the platform based on the design from Seatech, and Shift will provide energy storage solutions. ABS will provide technical review and advisory services along with guidance to navigate requirements related to regulatory standards for safety, reliability and compliance.
“ABS is well-positioned to use our deep industry knowledge of advanced battery technologies to support this project for the E-VOLT 50. We look forward to working together with GRSE, Seatech and Shift, innovative companies who are equally interested in the safety of the maritime industry while supporting a smooth transition to clean energy,” said Arnab Ghosh, ABS Vice President, Regional Business Development.
GRSE Chairman and Managing Director, Commodore PR Hari, IN (Retd), said: “We are excited to be part of this groundbreaking collaboration that combines the expertise of GRSE and three industry-leading organizations. “E-VOLT 50” is a bold step towards a cleaner and greener future for the maritime sector. By utilizing sustainable energy solutions and cutting-edge technology, we aim to redefine the standards of performance, efficiency and environmental stewardship.”
Prabjot Chopra, Vice President Technology at SeaTech Solutions, said: “We are delighted to work with GRSE, Shift Energy and ABS on this E-VOLT 50, India’s first electric tug, which will pave the way for India’s Green port operation.”
Shift Senior Director and Head of Sales Lasse Agger Antonisen said: “As we embark on this groundbreaking collaboration alongside GRSE, Seatech and ABS, Shift Clean Energy proudly stands at the forefront of maritime innovation with the E-VOLT 50. This collaborative initiative goes beyond the creation of a tugboat; it signifies a pivotal moment of transformation in the maritime industry. Together, we are establishing unprecedented benchmarks for performance, efficiency and environmental stewardship.”