Powering the future

Sanmar Shipyards, elkon and SCHOTTEL are reinforcing their position at the forefront of the all-electric tug market. With 15 fully electric tugs, the three companies demonstrate the strength of their long-standing collaboration and their shared commitment to innovation in zero-emission vessel technology.

Built at Sanmar Shipyards – a pioneer in fully electric tug construction – and equipped with SCHOTTEL propulsion systems and electrical integration by elkon, the new tugs meet the growing global demand for sustainable maritime solutions. Based on the ElectRA design by Canadian naval architect Robert Allan Ltd., the tugs feature either SCHOTTEL RudderPropellers SRP or SCHOTTEL CombiDrives SCD. The propulsion systems are complemented by elkon’s advanced Multi Drive DC grid.

“Each tug features a fully integrated electrical system developed entirely by elkon – from ESS-based power distribution and converter technology to control consoles, alarm systems and the Power Management System. We are proud to help deliver vessels that are not only zero-emission but also robust, safe and ready for the operational challenges of tomorrow.” 

Seçkin Uz, Managing Director of elkon and SCHOTTEL Turkey

This integrated setup enables fully electric operations, tailored to a wide range of operational profiles and customer-specific requirements. BEWA solutions, a fellow company in the SCHOTTEL Group, contributed by supplying the complete propulsion control system, adding another layer of in-house expertise and integration. 

Nine of the 15 electric tugs have already been delivered and are in service for several international operators, including HaiSea Marine (Canada), SAAM Towage (Canada and Chile), Buksér og Berging (Norway), Svitzer (Denmark) and Sanmar’s own fleet. Their deployment will span a wide range of applications – from LNG terminal operations and harbor towage to comprehensive fleet modernization initiatives.

“We are dedicated to shaping a more sustainable future by delivering next-generation tugs that set new benchmarks in environmental responsibility and operational excellence. Partnering with SCHOTTEL and elkon means working alongside trusted industry leaders whose cutting-edge technologies and shared commitment to innovation perfectly align with our vision.” 

İpek Gürün, Corporate Strategy Director at Sanmar Shipyards

This milestone underscores the combined expertise of SCHOTTEL and elkon in delivering integrated propulsion and electrical systems – and highlights their role in shaping the future of sustainable maritime operations.

“Together with elkon and Sanmar, we’ve transformed forward-looking designs into reliable, high-performance and environmentally friendly propulsion solutions. This partnership demonstrates the power of integrated expertise and reinforces our commitment to sustainable shipping.” 

Roland Schwandt, CEO of SCHOTTEL