Interview with Henrik T. Nilsson – Global Sales Manager, Traction & Mobile e-Power Motors, ABB

Could you briefly introduce yourself and your role at ABB?

I’m Henrik T. Nilsson, and I’m the Global Sales Manager, Traction & Mobile e-Power Motors, ABB, focusing on the development and deployment of advanced motor technologies for rail, marine and eMobility applications.

What does ABB Traction division focus on, and how does it relate to the maritime sector?

Our division focuses on designing and delivering products as well as complete propulsion systems, including electric motors, for demanding mobile applications, traditionally rail, and increasingly now marine and off-highway vehicles. The technologies we’ve developed for rail and off-highway vehicles are robust, high-performance, and energy-efficient, meaning they translate naturally to the maritime sector, particularly as it seeks reliable, compact propulsion systems for smaller hybrid and electric vessels. Drawing on ABB’s decades of experience in providing systems and products to the marine and heavy-duty industries, the new AMXE Marine Motor is a perfect example of combining advanced technologies with deep understanding of the demanding marine applications.

ABB is known for its innovation in electric motors and drives. What are the latest technological advancements your division has brought to market?

One of the most exciting recent advancements is the AMXE Marine Motor, which we are showcasing at Nor Shipping today. It is our most compact and powerful motor yet, combining high power density with a quiet, water-cooled design that’s ideal for marine use that is customisable to meet the needs of a wide range of small vessels. We’ve also paired it with solutions like the HES880 Mobile Inverter, enabling efficient and responsive propulsion systems tailored to the next generation of electric and hybrid vessels.

How do these technologies support the maritime industry’s shift towards electrification and decarbonisation?

These compact, low weight, high efficiency technologies can help to lower emissions, reduce fuel consumption, and help the industry to meet the International Maritime Organization’s 2050 net-zero goals. With reduced noise and vibration, improved efficiency, and lighter, smaller footprints, they make electrification more feasible across a wider range of vessels. They also simplify integration, which is key for accelerating adoption.

What role does electrification play in the future of both rail and maritime transport, and how is ABB contributing to this transformation?

Electrification is at the core of making transport more sustainable and resilient. ABB plays a pivotal role by providing end-to-end electric propulsion systems that help reduce emissions, operating costs, and environmental impact. Our legacy in electrifying rail has given us the foundation to now lead similar changes in maritime, where we see great potential, especially in coastal, inland, and support vessels.

Can you speak to the energy efficiency gains achieved with ABB’s motor solutions? How do they compare to traditional propulsion systems?

The new AMXE Marine Motor delivers the highest power density of any ABB motor yet, and with less weight and space it is more energy-efficient than traditional combustion-based systems. The motor has significant regenerative capabilities when paired with compatible drives, designed to reduce energy consumption but also enhance performance and cut operational costs.

What are the most significant trends you’re seeing in the transport electrification landscape across Europe and globally?

We’re seeing a strong push from both regulators and operators for zero-emission mobility, particularly in urban and coastal areas. Globally, there’s increasing investment in hybrid-electric systems, shore-to-ship power infrastructure, and digital fleet management. Europe continues to lead in policy, but the momentum is global.

Is ABB seeing increased demand from the maritime sector for electric or hybrid solutions? If so, in what types of vessels or applications?

Absolutely, the maritime industry is entering a critical period of transformation, with the global marine trade estimated to triple by 2050, operators are racing to decarbonize. Demand is growing for vessels that operate in emission-sensitive zones and require high reliability, compact systems, which is precisely where our AMXE Marine Motor fits in.

Do you see any specific opportunities for electrification or motor innovation in the Eastern Mediterranean region, including Cyprus?

Yes, the Eastern Mediterranean has enormous potential, particularly in tourism-related vessels. With increasing pressure to reduce emissions in ports and coast waters, regions like Cyprus can benefit from adopting compact and efficient electric propulsion systems like the AMXE.

How does ABB engage with local stakeholders—such as shipowners, ports, or policy makers—to drive adoption of sustainable technologies?

We work closely with local experts who play a crucial role within ABB’s wider global network. ABB’s lifecycle support ensures we’re present not just at installation, but throughout the asset’s life, providing a fast service for shipbuilders and operators at every stage.

ABB is known for collaborating across sectors. Are there any partnerships, pilot projects, or case studies you can share that involve electrified mobility solutions

There are now large heavy vehicles and machines that are operating with hybrid or electric motors. For example, Nuh Cement in Turkey, together with ABB, completed a retrofit conversion from diesel to a fully electric, zero carbon emission mining vehicle, significantly reducing operating costs of mining activities while boosting efficiency and performance. This conversion alone resulted in approximately 100,000 litres of fuel being saved annually and 245 tons of CO2 emissions avoided.

Looking ahead, what’s next for ABB in terms of innovation and impact in transport electrification?

The shift to fully electric propulsion is not just a trend – it’s the future of sustainable transportation. ABB is partnering with operators throughout the industry to optimize operations, electrify fleets, reduce operating costs and carbon footprints.

What message would you like to share with the maritime community, particularly in Cyprus and the wider Mediterranean, as they look toward a greener future?

ABB is at the forefront of developing innovative solutions to empower the marine transport industry’s journey towards net-zero emissions. Through continuous innovation and collaboration with industry partners, ABB is providing the technologies and expertise necessary to navigate a cleaner and more sustainable course for the industry.