Auckland’s first plug-in hybrid electric fast ferry has performed well on sea trials and will soon enter service on the busy Auckland to Devonport commuter route.
The vessel achieved a speed of 36 knots in all-electric mode, with the performance of the electric propulsion and onboard systems meeting and surpassing expectations. Designed by Incat Crowther and built by Q-West Boat Builders with systems integration by Hamilton Jet, the operationally-flexible 32m vessel is the first of two new electric hybrid fast ferries that will be operated by Fullers360 for Auckland Transport.
Capable of transporting up to 299 passengers and 20 bicycles at service speeds of up to 28 knots, the new vessel has been designed for safe, comfortable, and highly reliable commercial rapid transit ferry services.
The vessel’s drivetrain includes four Danfoss EM-PMI540-T4000 electric motors, Hamilton HTX42 water jets, and hybrid electric systems, including liquid cooling systems featuring pumps and heat exchangers for e-motors, converters, inverters and switchboards, and chillers for the 2.2MWh batteries. The design features electrical equipment and cable route arrangement to minimise electromagnetic interference, the selection and integration of fire suppression systems, and battery room ventilation systems. Weight control has been critical, with each item weighed and tracked throughout construction.
The vessel’s drivetrain features the ability to employ a pair of range-extending generators, also by Danfoss, that can be used in conjunction with the battery bank. This technology supports electrification and the reduction of emissions whilst delivering on timetable and range requirements. The new vessels are future-proofed through the option to refit for operation on hydrogen fuel for increased range in the future. The vessel is expected to reduce carbon emissions by 750,000kg per year.
Liam Dowling, Head of Innovations and Asset Development, 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.”
Incat Crowther Technical Manager Dan Mace added: “This new vessel will offer Aucklanders a world-class, low-emission travel experience. Incat Crowther’s expertise in conceptualising 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.”
Image: Incat Crowther designed electric fast ferry for Auckland (source: Incat Crowther)
