Damen Shipyards Group has signed a contract with multinational public transport company Arriva Danmark for five fully-electric ferries, known as the Damen Ferry 2306 E3.
Arriva will operate the ferries for its client, Danish public transport agency MOVIA, in the country’s capital city Copenhagen. The electric ferries are to reduce the environmental footprint of public transportation via utilisation of innovative technology.
Biodiesel, Hybrid or Full Electric
For the tender process of this contract, Damen’s in-house engineering team conducted extensive studies into the best possible solution for the operation in question. A key feature was environmental performance. To this end, Damen considered biodiesel, hybrid and full electric solutions. A zero emissions, fully electric solution offered the best results in terms of sustainability. It also transpired that, over the twelve year period of the contract, this was the most cost-efficient solution.
The DF2306 E3's electric propulsion.
Existing Framework
Another crucial requirement was that the new vessels be able to fit into the existing framework – including use of current timetables and infrastructure, as well as capacity to carry at least 60 passengers. To fulfil this, Damen has developed a design with a capacity for 80 passengers, tailored so that the vessels can dock – bow first – at the existing jetties.
Fast Charging Points
At the jetties at each end of the route, Damen will install fast charging points. These will apply solutions already proven in land public transport solutions. Charging, which will take place with each voyage, will take just seven minutes.
On Board Comfort
On board comfort was also an important factor. The ferries, without diesel engines, offer very low noise and vibrations. The passenger area – low in the water for wind protection – features very large windows, while the roof is also glazed. The wheelhouse has been raised to the highest possible position so as to provide operators with the optimal viewpoint.
Reliability
To ensure reliability, Damen has developed a robust, steel-hulled ferry with strong fenders. These features, combined with the electric propulsion, guarantee lowest possible maintenance requirements.
