The UECC crew charged with bringing the first new Battery Hybrid LNG propulsion ship from Asia to Europe have given their verdict on this next generation clean vessel.
As well as the noticeable build quality of the Auto Advance ro-ro, the general impression was how the new technology contributes to an improved working environmnent, leading to a better quality of life on board.
But it is the engine room and machinery spaces that are the ‘Holy grail’ of the ship. The crew report that: “Most of the systems are very user-friendly and manageable with a touch or a click. Most of the machinery is working very quietly allowing our team to be healthier, happier, and not suffer so much with the daily fatigue caused by noise and vibrations. We are very surprised about the machinery quality. New technology implemented in engine room is on very good level. Engine room is not so big, but is well arranged, so it is easier for us to maintain daily routines. Gas plant is very intuitive and working well. We are specially surprised, as we were expecting to have some problems as usually are on the new buildings.
“The most impressive part is the Hybrid side of this system. A very compact but powerful battery pack that allows us to work on the best performance range of the Auxiliary Engines and reduce Peak stress on Main Engine during hard sea voyages. This system is a great step forward allowing for safer and cleaner performance of the ship in general.”
Although those on board say there is plenty of new knowledge still to assimilate, the time spent on training is worthwhile. A final comment: “It is great to experience the future and the company’s effort to be a step ahead of the market, we are looking forward for the next sister ships to sail along.”
