As of May 23, 2025, Nippon Yusen Kaisha (NYK) unveiled Japan’s first fully battery-driven work vessel, which has been named e-Crea (pronounced “éclair”). [1] Keihin Dock Co. Ltd., an NYK Group company, built the vessel at Koyasu Shipyard. The vessel is designed without an onboard diesel generator and will support the docking and undocking of tugboats at Koyasu Shipyard. NYK Group aims to achieve low- and zero-carbon vessel operations by advancing the implementation of new technologies, such as this. This project came about in response to the growing global demand for decarbonizing maritime transportation, prompting NYK Group to explore next-generation fuels like ammonia. This initiative was spearheaded by Keihin Dock, NYK’s sole shipbuilding subsidiary. e-Crea is powered solely by batteries charged from shore facilities at Koyasu Shipyard and operates without emitting any carbon dioxide. The vessel also features a compact design measuring 9 meters in length and a compact hull, enabling maneuverability in confined spaces. The data and insights gained from e-Crea’s operation will be reflected in the development of an electric-propulsion tugboat scheduled for completion in December 2026.