Arc, a pioneering electric boat developer, is expanding its reach into the commercial sector with the launch of an electric tugboat that is set to serve the bustling Port of Los Angeles later this year. The 26-foot ship will be retrofitted with Arc Boats’ cutting-edge electric powertrain and software technology, marking a significant step towards sustainable maritime transportation.
Founded in January 2021, Arc Boat Company is a Los Angeles-based startup backed by a team of former rocket engineers and electric vehicle experts from renowned companies such as SpaceX, Tesla, Rivian, and Lyft. The company made waves in June 2022 with the release of its first product, the limited edition Arc One all-electric cruiser, which quickly sold out. Following the success of the Arc One, the boatbuilder unveiled the Arc Sport in February 2024, an electric wake boat boasting enhanced power, technology, and ballast.
In a bold move, Arc has now announced its foray into the commercial segment with the development of an electric tugboat. Equipped with massive lithium-ion battery packs and a 600 hp dual motor drivetrain, the tugboat will feature a modernized captain’s helm and real-time performance monitoring through Arc’s proprietary software. Partnering with Portland shipyard Diversified Marine Inc., Arc aims to revolutionize harbor operations at the Port of Los Angeles.
The decision to retrofit a commercial tugboat with electric technology aligns with the port’s sustainability goals, as Los Angeles and Long Beach have committed to transitioning to zero-emission equipment by 2030. As a major hub for waterborne goods on the West Coast, the port complex handles a significant portion of the nation’s imports and exports. Robert Binkowski, Arc’s research and development lead, emphasized the importance of electrifying harbor craft for a greener future:
“It just makes sense. This is the future of every port in the world. We’re leveraging our engineering resources and IP from our consumer platform to make anything that lives full-time in the harbor zero-emission.”
The electric tugboat’s innovative split assembly construction allows for easy land transport via truck and crane, showcasing Arc’s commitment to sustainable marine solutions. The project serves as a stepping stone for future electrified boat designs, with plans to work on larger vessels in the near future. The revamped electric tugboat is expected to commence operations in the Port of Los Angeles this summer, marking a significant milestone in the maritime industry’s shift towards eco-friendly practices.
