Svitzer has signed a Letter of Intent with Cochin Shipyard Limited to build a next generation of electric TRAnsverse tugs in India. The agreement marks a significant step in Svitzer’s fleet electrification strategy and further reinforces India’s position as an emerging global hub for advanced maritime vessel construction.
Learn more about the TRAnsverse tug
Svitzer and Cochin Shipyard will collaborate on plans to build electrical TRAnsverse tugboats in India — signalling Svitzer’s long-term intent to Make in India and to bring to market one of the most advanced and environmentally progressive tug designs to support India’s green port and green towage ambitions. Signature took place during India Maritime Week in Mumbai.
The collaboration will combine Svitzer’s global expertise in sustainable towage with CSL’s excellent shipbuilding capability and the wider strengths of India’s engineering talent, supply chains and innovation ecosystem.
Known for exceptional manoeuvrability and efficiency, TRAnsverse tugs provide precise control in confined waters, improving safety and operational performance while reducing energy use and emissions. Designed by Robert Allan with Svitzer, the TRAnsverse tug has unique features, including a patented half-circle towing staple – able to support advanced towing manoeuvres – and a double-ended hull and propulsion layout that maximises the benefits of the staple design.
“With this LoI we are taking a decisive step on our electrification journey. India’s shipbuilding ecosystem—and Cochin Shipyard’s proven track record—make Cochin a great place to further develop and build the TRAnsverse. We see strong alignment with the Government of India’s Maritime India Vision 2030 and Maritime Amrit Kaal Vision 2047. By pairing Svitzer’s nearly 200 years of towage experience with Indian engineering and manufacturing strength, we aim to deliver cleaner, safer and more efficient harbour operations for customers in India and around the world.” – Kasper Nilaus, CEO, Svitzer,
These vessels are intended for Svitzer’s global fleet renewal and growth markets, and will also create the opportunity for a locally built, world-class design to be deployed in Indian port and terminal operations.
“We look forward to working closely with Svitzer to make plans for building the next generation TRAnsverse tug in India. This collaboration will showcase Cochin Shipyard’s world class capabilities, deepen local supply chains and talent, and accelerate the availability of green, high performance tugboats for ports at home and abroad.” – Madhu S Nair, Chairman and Managing Director, Cochin Shipyard Limited.
This partnership represents a significant step toward decarbonising towage and advancing India’s maritime industry toward a low carbon future. As critical first- and last-mile port infrastructure, Svitzer’s towage solutions, decarbonisation expertise and asset mix provide a strong foundation to enhance the sustainability of port operations.
