Auckland’s first plug-in hybrid electric fast ferry has completed sea trials and is set to enter service on the Auckland-Devonport commuter route, following what project partners have described as strong performance during testing.
The 32-meter vessel, designed by Incat Crowther and built by Q-West Boat Builders with systems integration by HamiltonJet, is the first of two hybrid electric ferries to be operated by Fullers360 for Auckland Transport. During trials, the ferry reached a top speed of 36 knots in all-electric mode, with electric propulsion and onboard systems meeting or exceeding expectations.
The vessel can carry up to 299 passengers and 20 bicycles and is designed to operate at speeds of up to 28 knots in service. Passenger features include a range of seating options, tables with USB ports, luggage storage and large windows.
The drivetrain includes four Danfoss EM-PMI540-T4000 electric motors paired with Hamilton HTX42 waterjets and hybrid electric systems. The design also incorporates liquid cooling for motors, converters and batteries, along with systems to manage electromagnetic interference, fire suppression and battery ventilation. Weight tracking was used throughout construction to manage the integration of electric systems.
The vessel is equipped with range-extending generators that can operate alongside the battery bank to support timetable and range requirements. It has also been designed to allow potential future conversion to hydrogen fuel.
Auckland Transport said the ferry will support efforts to modernize and decarbonize the city’s fleet and is expected to reduce carbon emissions by around 750,000kg per year.
Liam Dowling, head of innovations and asset development at Fullers360, said, “Incat Crowther has been great to work with throughout this project, from the inception phase through to rollout. The flexibility, adaptability and spirit of partnership that’s gone through this project has been key to making Auckland’s first plug-in electric hybrid ferry a reality.”
Dan Mace, technical manager at Incat Crowther, said, “This new vessel will offer Aucklanders a world-class, low-emission travel experience. Incat Crowther’s expertise in conceptualizing the vessel design to ensure it is tailored for Auckland Transport’s operational requirements, combined with the application of the latest digital shipbuilding technology, was critical to the successful delivery of this project. This tailored design approach also ensured the vessel’s electric drive system was accurately and reliably integrated from the outset. Embedding digital shipbuilding processes throughout the project will also provide a range of benefits to Auckland Transport and Fullers360 over the long term – including lower maintenance costs and improved operational outcomes through streamlined training for staff.”
In related news, Stena Connecta arrives in Belfast ahead of hybrid electric service launch