Incat unveils world’s largest battery-electric vessel
Incat has launched its Hull 096, which is claimed to be the largest battery-electric ship in the world, at its Hobart shipyard in Australia.
Constructed for the South American ferry operator Buquebus, the vessel’s launch represents the ninth collaboration between Incat and Buquebus.
At 130m long, Hull 096 is not only the largest electric ship but also the largest electric vehicle of its type ever constructed, according to the company.
Hull 096 is set to operate on battery-electric power, facilitating the transport of up to 2,100 passengers and 225 vehicles across the River Plate between Buenos Aires and Uruguay.
The ship features more than 250 tonnes of batteries and an energy storage system (ESS) with an installed capacity exceeding 40MWh.
The ESS is integrated with eight electric-driven waterjets developed in collaboration with technology partner Wartsila.
Incat chairman Robert Clifford said: “We’ve been building world-leading vessels here in Tasmania for more than four decades, and Hull 096 is the most ambitious, most complex, and most important project we’ve ever delivered. This ship changes the game.”
Currently, efforts are focused on completing the interior of the vessel, which includes a 2,300m2 duty-free retail area, the largest shopping space on any ferry worldwide.
The final stages of fit-out, battery installation, and energy system integration are scheduled to occur before sea trials later this year on the River Derwent.
Incat CEO Stephen Casey said: “Hull 096 proves that large-scale, low-emission transport solutions are not only possible, they are ready now. This is a proud day for Tasmania and for Australian manufacturing.”
In December 2022, Incat Crowther delivered a new crew transfer vessel (CTV) to Goldsea Marine & Offshore Engineering in Shanghai.
The Incat Crowther 32, built by AFAI Southern Shipyard in Guangzhou, China, features a spacious cargo area and can reach speeds of up to 25kt.
