For the inland water transportation industry KOTUG combines a range of modular and scalable electric pusher tugs, the E-Pusher™ Series, powered by swappable energy containers with its smart AI-driven dispatch and route planning application OptiPort.   

The KOTUG E-Pusher Series is a series of modular and scalable electrically powered pusher boats for the transportation of a wide range of cargo flows. Combining assembly construction with the globally patented design of the zero-emission E-Pusher – a PE hull assembly with a steel/aluminium frame and electric drive – is an entirely new approach in shipbuilding. The design of the E-Pusher offers the unique ability to switch energy sources, varying from fossil, hydrogen, and fully electric energy. The series consists of four models to cover all the inland waterways: the E-Pusher CityBarge (for inner cities) and the E-Pusher S, M and L for larger waterways.

With this zero-emission logistic solution, KOTUG aims to support the worldwide energy transition and the modal shift from road transport to waterways while meeting the growing demand for electric-powered vessels.

E-Pusher™ Series 

The KOTUG E-Pusher Series currently has three models ranging from 5,5 to 22 meters in length and a maximum depth of 0,45 to 1,35 meters resulting in a draft that is 30% less than conventional pusher tug designs. 

Due to the modular approach and lean assembly method, KOTUG reduced the construction time of the E-Pusher by more than half compared to traditional vessels. According to the principle of circular building, the design implies that the vessel has an eternal lifespan because every single part can be replaced, adjusted, or removed, including the energy source, to changing applications or specifications.

Smart Operations 

For smart operations KOTUG uses OptiPort, its advanced dispatching-, route- and reporting tool. KOTUG OptiPort is an automated dispatching system based on historical and real-time information bridging port and terminal information with ship operations. The tool supports fleet owners in optimizing expected departure- and arrival times, routing and speed control, leading to reduced energy usage and just-in-time departure and arrival.  The system is active since 2017 and is currently in use by vessel operators in as Australia, Japan, Belgium, Canada, the United States and the Netherlands.  

KOTUG CityBarge  

Together with partner Circle Line Logistics KOTUG deploys the smallest version of the E-Pusher, also known as KOTUG CityBarge, for various projects in the Netherlands, such as in Amsterdam, Leiden, Rotterdam and Utrecht. With a draft of only 45 centimetres, the boat can sail in shallow water and pass under the lowest bridges, making the CityBarge a perfect fit for water transport in historic city centres and a natural alternative to road transport.

With this concept, KOTUG contributes to urban liveability by reinstating the use of waterways for urban distribution of waste and other cargo to relieve congested cities of (heavy) truck transport.
The construction time of the E-Pusher S is around four weeks.

Click here for more information on CityBarge.  

OTHER TOWAGE SERVICES 

• Harbour Towage
• Chartering & Salvage
• Offshore & Terminal Towage