ABB picked to provide propulsion and automation solutions for new DRBA ferry

Image: Elliott Bay Design Group

Shipbuilder Senesco Marine has contracted ABB to deliver full propulsion and automation systems for the 75-car passenger and vehicle ferry that it is building to replace the Delaware River and Bay Authority (DRBA) 45-year-old ferry Cape Henlopen that connects Lewes, Del., and Cape May, N.J.

Construction of the new diesel-electric hybrid DRBA ferry will start in mid-2026.

ABB’s comprehensive scope of supply includes the high redundancy propulsion system comprising flexible Onboard DC Grid power platform, and PEMS power and energy management system, as well as engineering, acceptance testing, training and commissioning support.

Expected to improve efficiency, reliability, and customer experience, the new DRBA ferry promises initial fuel savings of around 35%, as well as lower operating and maintenance costs compared to the existing fleet. Developed by Elliott Bay Design Group and classed by American Bureau of Shipping to meet United States Coast Guard USCG requirements. it will enter service as a diesel-electric vessel, but is designed for the future installation of a 7,000 kWh battery pack for an all-electric upgrade.

“Senesco Marine is truly excited to have been awarded the DRBA contract for the Cape May Lewes Ferry. We are absolutely thrilled to be working alongside ABB on this project, especially given their remarkable expertise and proven success in the hybrid propulsion space,” said Ted Williams, president, Senesco Marine, LLC.

“ABB is proud to support the modernization of the Cape May–Lewes Ferry with hybrid-electric propulsion technology developed and supported here in the United States,” said Timo Vesala, head of sales, Marine Systems, Americas, ABB’s Marine & Ports division. “This project builds on our long-standing commitment to helping American shipyards and coastal communities move toward cleaner, more efficient marine transportation.

“Our solutions are entirely scalable, and our ferry projects range from the biggest electrification programs to smaller vessels with very tailored needs,” he added. “We look forward to working with Senesco Marine and the Delaware River & Bay Authority to deliver the next generation of sustainable ferry operations.”