Asahi Tanker, a Japanese company known for launching the world’s first all-electric tankers, has joined the Maritime Battery Forum (MBF) to support the electrification of maritime vessels. This membership aligns with its mission to foster a decarbonized society through technological collaboration and knowledge exchange.
The company’s two battery-powered coastal oil tankers, operational in Tokyo Bay since 2022, are designed for zero-emission bunkering. The sister vessel, Akari, joined the fleet in 2023 for operations in Japan’s Keihin region. Both tankers utilize large-capacity lithium-ion batteries, effectively eliminating greenhouse gas emissions across their operations.
Built by KOA Industry Co and Imura Shipyard Co, with propulsion systems provided by Kawasaki Heavy Industries, the vessels feature a 3,480-kWh Orca energy storage system from Corvus Energy. Asahi Tanker views battery-electric propulsion as a significant step toward reducing environmental impact and enhancing the working conditions for seafarers while contributing to global decarbonization efforts.
