SAAM and Caterpillar team up on alternative power

The collaboration aims to reduce dependence on diesel fuel and explore options such as electrification and alternative fuels including methanol and ethanol.

The companies are already working together on the development of a dual-fuel engine, the Cat 3500E, which is designed to run on methanol and is slated for testing later this year.

“We are committed to supporting SAAM Towage in reducing fuel consumption and greenhouse gas emissions while improving its fleet’s operational efficiency,” said Caterpillar Marine vice president and general manager, Brad Johnson.

Active in over 90 ports across 13 countries in the Americas, SAAM Towage already operates two electric-powered tugs equipped with Caterpillar engines in British Columbia, Canada.

The company is also preparing to receive its third electric tug, which will be deployed in its operations in Chile.

With over 150 tugs powered by Caterpillar Marine engines, SAAM Towage has established a close working relationship with Caterpillar to use the latest technologies, to help drive improvements in fleet performance and sustainability.

“This alliance is in line with the sustainable development objectives that the company has set for itself and is a powerful tool to address the challenges presented by climate change and the decarbonisation efforts of the global maritime industry,” said SAAM Towage’s sustainability and development manager, Pablo Cáceres.