Ship Design: Meet the e5 Pure Electric Tanker

Innovative Electric Tanker design from Japan coming to local waterways by 2020

The global push to dramatically reduce emissions from the world’s fleet of ships continues to drive innovation across the sector, including the introduction of a new Pure Electric Tanker concept released today from Japan. With ClassNK in place to make technical advice on the ship design and electric propulsion package, Asahi Tanker Co. Ltd. and its partner Exeno-Yamamizu Corporation Tokyo jointly developed the new domestic shipping tanker design which incorporates “zero emission electric propulsion.”

Dubbed e5, the first variant is envisaged as a bunker supply vessel serving Tokyo Bay. Unlike many other concept designs, the e5 Pure Electric Tanker concept is on track to become a reality in a relatively short time, with the first vessel launch anticipated in Q4 2020. Simultaneously work is underway on an e5 coastal variant with a longer cruising range.

The e5 Pure Electric Tanker focuses on five core elements:

1. Electrification: The ships core energy source via lithiumion batteries.
2. Environment: Emission (CO2, NOx, Sox) controls together with minimizing noise and vibration.
3. Economics: Utilizing IoT and Digital tools to improve propulsion performance.
4. Efficiency: Simple hull construction combined with automated equipment.
5. Evolution: Fully embracing digitalization and technological advances to create the most advanced design concept.

e5 Main Particulars
Length: 60m
Width: 10.3m
Propulsion machinery: 2 x 350 kW azimuth thruster, 1 x 130 kW bow thruster
Gross tonnage: 499 tons
Cargo tank capacity: Approximately 1,300 cu. m.
Vessel registration: Japan
Concept designer: Groot Ship Design (Hull)