Largest battery-electric ferry starts sea trials
The harbour trials form part of an extensive testing and commissioning programme that will continue in the lead-up to the vessel’s delivery to South America (Source: Incat)
Incat Tasmania has begun sea trials of what is claimed to be the world’s largest battery-electric ship in Hobart. The 130m-long passenger-vehicle ferry is undergoing a series of test manoeuvres on the River Derwent which flows through the Tasmanian capital.
Robert Clifford, Incat chairman, said: “This is the moment were the ship truly comes alive. Moving Hull 096 under its own battery-electric power is a world first at this scale and confirms that electric propulsion is viable for large commercial vessels. Harbour trials allows us to test how all systems perform together in the water. It’s a significant step towards delivery and another major milestone in the evolution of sustainable shipbuilding.”
The vessel is to be deployed on the Buquebus service between Argentina and Uruguay following its delivery within the next few weeks.
