China's first hydrogen-electric tugboat, the "Hydrogen-Electric Tug No.1," has commenced operations at Shandong Port's Qingdao Port. Developed with Ningde Era (CATL), the vessel utilizes CATL’s innovative marine solutions, making it China’s most powerful port tug with the largest lithium battery capacity, achieving genuine carbon-neutral operations. As critical infrastructure for port efficiency, its delivery will significantly reduce carbon emissions during port operations, setting a replicable industry benchmark for green port equipment.

Amid global port decarbonization trends, low-energy, low-emission electric tugs have become pivotal for port electrification. Known as "sea dwarves," tugs maneuver massive cargo ships, tankers, and container vessels, performing critical tasks like berthing assistance and course correction.

CATL supplied the tug with a high-performance, high-safety marine power solution. Its 7,838.88kWh battery capacity—China’s highest energy density at 140Wh/kg—and 5,200kW max output enable 12+ hours of operation at 9 knots, delivering 82 tons of bollard pull for prolonged efficiency in complex waters. CATL’s NP (non-thermal propagation) technology, proprietary BMS, and millisecond-level liquid cooling control mitigate thermal runaway risks, ensuring stability under demanding conditions.

The vessel is projected to cut annual CO₂ emissions by 1,500 tons, accelerating Qingdao Port’s zero-carbon transition.

As a global leader in new energy innovation, CATL is building comprehensive zero-carbon marine solutions across sectors. Landmark projects include China’s first oil-electric hybrid luxury catamaran "Greater Bay Area One," the world’s largest pure-electric cruise ship "Yangtze River Three Gorges 1," and now China’s first hydrogen-electric tug. These initiatives span tourist cruises, port tugs, and inland/coastal cargo vessels.

CATL will continue advancing marine electrification, partnering globally to accelerate zero-carbon transformation in ports and shipping, powering sustainable maritime economies.