ABB And Incat Sign LOI To Develop Lightweight Hybrid-Electric Ferry
ABB and Incat Tasmania will explore building an electric ferry with hybrid-electric propulsion which could transition to battery power as shore charging becomes available. In a groundbreaking collaboration between the two companies, the announcement paves the way for ABB to supply zero-emission power and propulsion solutions and evaluate a future commercial arrangement for the 148-meter long ferry and similar vessels.
Seeking a transitional route to zero-emission operations for the ferry segment, two leaders in ferry design and maritime technology, Incat and ABB will evaluate the suitability of the ‘Incat 148E’ – a roll-on roll-off passenger (RoPax) catamaran for operating in hybrid mode as well as adapting to full battery operation at a later stage.
“All at Incat are extremely excited at having the opportunity to work alongside ABB. This collaboration combines the world’s leading global technology company and the world’s leading lightweight ship builder into a partnership that is 100 percent focused on completely green energy transportation solution of future,” said Robert Clifford, Founder and Chairman of the Board, Incat Group of Companies. “Lightweight Incat ships use up to 40 percent less power than an equivalent steel ship, which means up to 40 percent less emissions. We’ve done extensive work in applying our excellence in ferry design to the specifics of electric propulsion. ABB is the ideal partner to help Incat realize our ambition to lead the shortsea shipping industry into a more sustainable future.”
Conceived by Revolution Design, Incat’s in house design office, the 148E would be built in Australia to DNV class, operating at speeds of up to 21 knots. It would feature ABB’s Onboard DC Grid™ power distribution, ABB Ability™ Power and Energy Management System™ (PEMS), 800xA distributed control systems, a remote diagnostic system, and two Azipod® propulsion units enabling highly precise control and maneuverability maximizing efficiencies across the operational range of the vessel.
With its proven Azipod® propulsion, ABB has vast experience in delivering hybrid-electric propulsion solutions. The company has also established a strong position as an integrator of marine battery systems for ferries, a ship type which carries approximately 4.27 billion passengers plus 373 million vehicles worldwide per year*.
“There is no single solution where shipping’s emission challenges are concerned and we have to be imaginative in this transition to more sustainable ferry operations,” said Palemia Field, Global Segment Manager, Ferries, ABB Marine & Ports. “Considerations of what a future ferry could or should look like and how it would operate are bringing bold thinking to market. ABB’s innovative electric solutions are an enabler for forward-looking companies like Incat.”
In the first instance, the hybrid-electric propulsion solution envisioned for the Incat 148E will involve the vessel’s diesel engine charging a shipboard battery, whose output provides the flexibility in power management to improve fuel efficiency and cut emissions. When shore charging facilities are available, Incat-built electric ferries would make greater use of batteries, with project goals envisaging installed battery power of up to 30MWh.
Reference: ABB
Disclaimer :
The information contained in this website is for general information purposes only. While we endeavour to keep the information up to date and correct, we make no representations or warranties of any kind, express or implied, about the completeness, accuracy, reliability, suitability or availability with respect to the website or the information, products, services, or related graphics contained on the website for any purpose. Any reliance you place on such information is therefore strictly at your own risk.
In no event will we be liable for any loss or damage including without limitation, indirect or consequential loss or damage, or any loss or damage whatsoever arising from loss of data or profits arising out of, or in connection with, the use of this website.
Do you have info to share with us ? Suggest a correction
About Author
Marine Insight News Network is a premier source for up-to-date, comprehensive, and insightful coverage of the maritime industry. Dedicated to offering the latest news, trends, and analyses in shipping, marine technology, regulations, and global maritime affairs, Marine Insight News Network prides itself on delivering accurate, engaging, and relevant information.
Latest Shipping News You Would Like:
Get the Latest Maritime News Delivered to Your Inbox!
Our free, fast, and fun newsletter on the global maritime industry, delivered everyday.