BMT Launches New Hybrid ‘Eco Ferry’ Design

BMT has announced the launch of a striking new hybrid ferry design which could pave the way for a cleaner, more cost-efficient energy option for ferry operators. At 31m, the 149-passenger ‘Eco Ferry’ has a top speed of 20 knots and offers an unrivalled, intelligent hybrid system delivering smooth, silent and vibration-free power.

John Bonafoux, Managing Director at BMT explains. “Greener ferry systems have to be the future and we’re extremely excited to be launching this new hybrid design. In our recent case study of an example river commute in New York, the ‘Eco Ferry’ engines are completely off for 63% of the time. That’s a huge saving on fuel consumption and emissions, not to mention engine hours and maintenance.”

BMT has a proud heritage of designing highly efficient catamaran hulls, with ferries operating in New York, Washington, London and Amsterdam, to name just a few. With recent hybrid experience gained in several superyacht projects, BMT has combined this expertise with its proficiency in efficient hull form design to produce this latest green offering.

Working in collaboration with BAE Systems, the Eco Ferry uses the ‘Hybrid-Drive’ system. When the upper end of power is needed, the diesel engines are there to support, keeping the batteries topped up at the same time – all of this happening seamlessly and automatically. The vessel’s 160kWh ESS (energy storage system) can also be further charged whilst alongside and by a solar array on the vessel roof.

Bonafoux adds: “It’s an all-round, nicer experience for passengers. The Eco-ferry glides in and out of dock silently and smoke-free, completely under electric power. No longer will there be noise and diesel fumes at the dock as passengers embark and disembark.”

Press Release: BMT

Latest Shipping News You Would Like:

ABB To Power Samskip’s New Hydrogen-Fueled Container Vessels

Posted on September 21, 2023

ABB has secured a complete power, propulsion and automation systems order for Samskip Group’s hydrogen-powered container vessels.

MSC Confirms Orders To Fincantieri For 2 New Hydrogen-powered Ships To Join Explora Journeys’ Fleet

Posted on September 21, 2023

The Cruise Division of MSC Group confirmed firm orders for two hydrogen-powered vessels for its luxury travel brand Explora Journeys with the Italian shipbuilder Fincantieri.

Britoil Justice Sea trial Successfully Completed

Posted on September 21, 2023

Britoil’s new platform supply vessel, the Britoil Justice, successfully completed seatrial on 17 September 2023.

MOL Holds An Experiential Event: ‘Let’s Unlock The Secrets Of Corals!’

Posted on September 21, 2023

MOL announced that on Sunday, September 3, the company held a hands-on event in front of the coral aquarium at the entrance hall of the Head Office.

ABS Joins Maersk For Milestone Vessel Naming Ceremony

Posted on September 21, 2023

ABS joined Maersk and global dignitaries for the official naming ceremony of the first containership ever to sail on green methanol, a Maersk feeder vessel built to ABS Class, the LAURA MAERSK.