PRESS RELEASE
TESVOLT OCEAN battery system receives type approval for maritime use
RINA type approval confirms market readiness of Kaptein Compass Core battery
Lübeck/Germany, September 17, 2025 – The “Kaptein NMC Compass Core” battery system from Lübeck-based manufacturer TESVOLT OCEAN has been approved by the multinational engineering consultancy, inspection and certification group RINA for use in inland and seagoing vessels. The battery successfully passed all functional and stress tests, demonstrating its safety and robustness. Developed specifically as an e-drive solution for smaller vessels, the Compass Core is also suitable for retrofitting on ships with very limited onboard space. At just 5.9 kg per kWh, the module is significantly lighter than conventional marine batteries and also charges exceptionally quickly. The Compass Core has been optimised for ship projects with very limited budgets.
Press images: https://www.tesvolt-ocean.com/en/press/tesvolt-ocean-battery-system-receives-approval-for-maritime-use.html
Exceptional safety through integrated protection mechanisms
“The Kaptein Compass Core battery module passed all RINA tests for type approval certification of lithium battery systems,” reports Patrizio Di Francesco, North Europe Special Projects Manager and Principal Engineer at RINA Germany in Hamburg. “TESVOLT OCEAN’s protection concepts are carefully integrated and make a vital contribution to onboard system safety. In the event of critical battery temperatures, a multi-stage protection system is activated. The module has also proven to be extremely robust.”
Fast-charging and lightweight
“RINA applies high standards and works with more than 100 flag administrations worldwide, making it highly experienced in the technical evaluation of ship components. We are therefore especially pleased that the Kaptein Compass Core has received approval for inland and seagoing vessels from RINA and can now, quite literally, set sail,” says Frank Richter, Portfolio Manager at TESVOLT OCEAN. “In fact, demand for safe, reliable battery systems for clean marine propulsion is growing rapidly, as more and more ports are denying entry to vessels without clean propulsion. While there are many battery systems on the market, they are all heavier than the Kaptein Compass Core and most charge very slowly.” The Kaptein Compass Core offers a 4 C rate – the highest C-rate currently available in the maritime industry.
Optimised for vessels with limited space
Like all TESVOLT OCEAN modules, the Compass Core battery modules can be mounted individually and at any angle within a ship. Measuring 60.5 cm in length and 14.9 cm in height, they fit into almost any niche. They can also be installed directly on the floor; being vibration-resistant, they can be walked on once installed. Thanks to their low weight of just 86 kg, the Compass Core modules can be carried by two people and installed without the need for a crane – even in hard-to-access areas of the ship. The system is air-cooled, which further simplifies installation and reduces maintenance costs.
About TESVOLT OCEAN
TESVOLT OCEAN, based in Lübeck, Germany, develops high-performance battery storage solutions designed specifically for the demanding conditions at sea. Its Navigator, Compass Core and Compass systems cover a wide range of requirements – from high-performance propulsion to retrofitting electrification projects with extremely limited installation space. With its innovative products and services, TESVOLT OCEAN is setting new standards in Europe’s maritime energy supply.
TESVOLT OCEAN is part of the TESVOLT Group. TESVOLT AG has specialised in commercial and industrial energy storage systems for more than 10 years and has received multiple awards for innovation.
About RINA
RINA, leading certification and engineering company, provides a wide range of services across the Energy, Marine, Infrastructure & Mobility, Certification, Industry and Real Estate sectors. RINA works on behalf of 122 flag administrations and is one of the most powerful classification societies worldwide. It also supports the shipping industry in achieving the CO₂ reduction targets set by the International Maritime Organization (IMO).
With revenues in 2024 of 915 million euros, 6,200 employees and 200 offices in 70 countries worldwide, RINA is a member of key international organizations and an important contributor to the development of new legislative standards.
Press contact
Vera Neuhäuser
phone: +49 30 221 83 82 49
mobile: +49 178 53 68 425
email: vera.neuhaeuser@sunbeam-communications.com