NIPPON Yusen Kaisha has unveiled Japan’s first fully battery-driven work vessel, part of the line’s efforts to leverage technology to facilitate decarbonisation.
The vessel’s name e-Crea is actually pronounced ‘éclair’ for its visual resemblance to the famous French pastry.
The vessel was built by Keihin Dock Co., an NYK Group company, which built the vessel at its Koyasu Shipyard.
e-Crea was designed without an onboard diesel generator, and 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 realise low- and zero-carbon vessel operations,” the group said in a statement.
Powered solely by batteries charged from shore facilities at Keihin Dock’s Koyasu Shipyard, e-Crea reportedly operates without emitting carbon dioxide.
Additionally, NYK said the vessel is significantly quieter compared to conventional ships running on fossil fuels, substantially reducing operational noise.
Measuring approximately nine meters in length, NYK revealed its design enables “exceptional” maneuverability in confined spaces, making e-Crea ideally suited for assisting with docking operations and vessel movement at shipyards.
“Following the installation of the electric propulsion system, including substantial battery modules in the hull, the vessel’s weight exceeded initial projections,” the line said.
“To maintain proper balance, the team reconfigured equipment placement and cabling, thereby optimising internal space and ensuring safe, stable navigation.”
Moreover, to effectively manage heat, the design team implemented multi-layered water-cooling systems and integrated air ducts onboard, while enhancements to the battery room included fireproofing measures and protection against hazardous gases, along with improved ventilation, to ensure the vessel upholds robust safety standards.
The pastry-shaped vessel is part of NYK’s response to the global demand for decarbonized maritime operations, with the group actively exploring next-generation fuels, including ammonia, while fully electric work vessels represent one of the most promising options for sustainable shipping.