Wärtsilä, a prominent technology group, has been chosen to supply the primary engines for two new pusher tugs being constructed for Brazilian operator - AMAGGI.
These vessels are under construction at the Beconal shipyard in Manaus, Brazil, and are being designed specifically to promote decarbonised operations by using biodiesel-fuelled engines, a capability that was crucial in securing the contract with Wärtsilä. The order was officially recorded in the fourth quarter of 2025.
Fuel flexibility with Wärtsilä engines
The Wärtsilä engines are designed to operate on biodiesel, providing significant fuel flexibility. “The fuel flexibility of the Wärtsilä engines will enable these two new pusher vessels to operate using environmentally sustainable biofuels,” states Claudinei Zenatti, Logistics and Operations Director at AMAGGI.
By employing biodiesel, the engines are anticipated to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, which aligns with AMAGGI's environmental objectives and the overarching aim of delivering more sustainable river transport.
Efficiency in the Amazon waterway
Each of the new ships will be powered by two Wärtsilä 20 engines, also featuring a WDCU
Each of the new ships will be powered by two Wärtsilä 20 engines, also featuring a Wärtsilä Data Collection Unit (WDCU). These engines have the capacity to operate on either diesel or biodiesel, generating a total power output of 2,100kW.
This capability empowers each vessel to push up to 20 barges, collectively transporting 32,000 tons of grain along the Amazon inland waterway system. The delivery of Wärtsilä's equipment to the shipyard is set to begin in August 2026.
Monitoring and performance enhancement
According to Genil Mazza, Newbuilding Sales Manager for LatAm at Wärtsilä Marine, “AMAGGI is the first pusher tug operator to run entirely on biodiesel - a step aligned with our shared commitment to decarbonised shipping. The Wärtsilä Data Collection Unit (WDCU) will enable accurate monitoring of the engines, which promotes performance reliability and the benefit of extended overhaul intervals.”
AMAGGI manages a river fleet that includes 212 barges and pusher vessels. Wärtsilä and AMAGGI have been long-term partners, working together for more than three decades to enhance sustainable and efficient river transport within Brazil.
