Incat Tasmania is building the world’s largest battery-electric ship. Last week, the ferry commenced harbour trials in the River Derwent for the first time.
This marks the first occasion that Hull 096 has moved under its own battery-electric propulsion, signalling the transition from construction to operational testing for the 130-metre ship. Powered by more than 250 tonnes of batteries, the vessel’s Energy Storage System delivers over 40 megawatt-hours of installed capacity.
Hull 096, to be named China Zorrilla, is currently the world’s largest battery-electric ship and the largest electric vehicle of any type so far. The vessel is capable of carrying 2100 passengers and more than 220 vehicles. Once completed, it will operate for Buquebus between Buenos Aires and Uruguay,on the River Plate.
Also read: Incat launches world’s largest battery-electric ship
Harbour trials
The harbour trials see the vessel undertake a carefully managed series of movements on the Derwent, allowing crews to test propulsion, manoeuvrability, control systems, and onboard operational performance in real-world conditions. The trials represent the first time a ship of this size and passenger-vehicle capacity has operated solely on battery power anywhere in the world.
Incat Chairman Robert Clifford says the commencement of harbour trials was a critical moment for the project and the global maritime industry: ‘This is the moment where the ship truly comes alive. Moving Hull 096 under its own battery-electric power is a world first at this scale and confirms that electric propulsion is viable for large commercial vessels.’
Also read: World’s largest battery-electric ship powers up
Lead up to delivery
The harbour trials form part of an extensive testing and commissioning programme that will continue in the lead-up to the vessel’s delivery to South America.
Picture: The world’s largest battery-electric ship commencing harbour trials (photo by Incat Tasmania).
Also read: World’s largest battery-powered vessel under construction
