Green shipping boost

Kotug International has established an inland shipping division to provide electric-powered pusher tugs and smart AI-driven dispatch and route planning applications for the inland water transportation industry.

“The inland shipping market offers a great opportunity for sustainable logistical solutions”, says Ard-Jan Kooren, CEO of Kotug.

Supporting the energy transition

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.

The company offers a range of modular and scalable electric pusher tugs. Powered by swappable energy containers. The E-Pusher Series currently has three models ranging from 5.5 to 22m long and a maximum depth of 0.6 to 1.35m, 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 by more than 25% compared to traditional vessels. Together with partners, Kotug developed various energy containers ranging from Stage V diesel, (Bio)gas and Hydrogen to battery solutions.

For smart operations Kotug will use 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 optimising expected departure- and arrival times, routing and speed control, leading to reduced energy usage and just-in-time departure and arrival.

With Kotug CityBarge B.V., Kotug recently started activities in the municipality of Leiden with a 5.5m E-Pusher providing a zero-emission alternative for heavy truck transport in inner-cities. Kotug CityBarge BV. is a partnership of Kotug with Circle Line Logistics B.V.