Singapore startup launches solar-powered electric boats with V2G technology

Singapore startup Pyxis' first solar-powered electric boat is officially unveiled. (Photo: Pyxis)

Singapore-based startup Pyxis officially launched its solar-powered electric boats on March 17.

These innovative ferries help river cruise operators reduce costs while being among the first to integrate Vehicle-to-Grid (V2G) technology, enabling them to supply low-carbon power to surrounding facilities and accelerate the decarbonization of the maritime industry.

Pyxis electric boats lead with V2G tech

According to Pyxis, the new boat consumes the same amount of electricity as three to four hairdryers during operation, and its solar panels can generate 22 kWh of electricity daily. If calculated across 10 boats, the total daily energy production would be sufficient to power 20 HDB flats for one day.

Tommy Phun, founder and CEO of Pyxis, explained that the Pyxis R ferry can feed excess electricity back into the grid. It is one of the first vessels in Singapore to adopt this technology. As more boats are delivered, the Singapore River will feature a "floating solar farm," providing low-carbon electricity to riverside activities and facilities.

Although Singapore currently lacks infrastructure suitable for V2G technology, Pyxis has signed agreements with partners to test the functionality, setting a new milestone for industry development. The Pyxis R ferry will first be supplied to Singapore’s WaterB tour operator, with an initial order of 10 boats. Two have already been delivered, with the remaining deliveries expected to be completed by the end of the year.

Pyxis has signed an agreement with its partners to pilot a Vehicle-to-Grid (V2G) solution. (Photo: Pyxis)

Pyxis boats draw attention from Japan, Malaysia, Indonesia

WaterB currently operates 20 boats for tourist excursions. The decision to gradually switch to electric boats is driven by both environmental concerns and the expectation of reduced operational costs.

WaterB Director Darren Tan stated that the solar panels on the Pyxis R ferry can meet at least 50% of daily operational electricity needs, which is expected to lower the company’s long-term operational costs by 30% to 40%.

In accordance with government regulations, all newly purchased port vessels in Singapore must be electric by 2030. This policy led Pyxis to introduce its first electric workboat, the Pyxis One, in March last year. Additionally, Pyxis Energy, a subsidiary of Pyxis, has set up charging stations for vessels at Southpoint Pier in Singapore.

According to Pyxis, the company has already received inquiries about electric boats from buyers in Japan, Malaysia, and Indonesia and aims to become the leader in maritime electrification across the Asia-Pacific region.

Source: The Straits Times