The design for a new Z-drive hybrid tractor tug for Baydelta Maritime has been unveiled in the US.
Designed by Seattle-based Jensen Maritime, the 30.4-metre tug will feature the same ship assist and tanker escort capabilities of existing Valor-class harbour tugs, but with multiple operational modes.
To be built by Nichols Brothers Boat Builders, the eight-berth vessel will have a Rolls-Royce hybrid system that allows it to operate direct-diesel, diesel-electric or fully electric while assisting the large containerships and tankers that operate in ports on America's West Coast.
It will transit at up to eight knots in electric-only mode, and achieve a 90-tonne bollard pull in diesel-electric mode.
The tug will be powered by two Caterpillar 1995kW diesel engines and two Rolls-Royce 424kW electric motors. The Z-drive system includes three 300kW CAT generators and a 150kW harbour generator.
Featuring a large pilot house providing all-around visibility the vessel also has a deckhouse, a large mess and lounge area.
It will be equipped with a Rapp Marine electric hawser winch and a single-drum tow winch.
The tug, which will be ABS Load Line classed and compliant with US Coast Guard regulations, is scheduled for delivery in the first quarter of 2019.