The Port of Antwerp-Bruges has unveiled the Volta 1, Europe’s first fully electric tugboat, marking a significant milestone in its mission to achieve climate-neutral operations by 2050.
Developed in partnership with Damen, the Volta 1 builds on the port’s history of innovation, following earlier breakthroughs such as the hydrogen-powered Hydrotug and methanol-powered Methatug.
The Volta 1 is a Reversed Stern Drive tugboat designed with a double bow and equipped with Damen’s patented Twin Fin skeg, providing exceptional stability and maneuverability. This allows the vessel to operate efficiently both as a front and rear tug.
Powered by a 2,782 MWh battery system, the tug can operate emission-free for up to 12 hours and is fully rechargeable within two hours using a 1.5 MW charging station.
Despite its electric propulsion, the Volta 1 delivers a bollard pull of 70 tons—matching the performance of conventional diesel-powered tugboats.
This launch is part of the port’s broader sustainability strategy, which emphasizes the integration of cutting-edge green technologies to drive environmental innovation and reduce the carbon footprint of port operations.
