Auckland’s first plug-in hybrid electric ferry makes its debut

Photo: Incat Crowther

Auckland, New Zealand, has taken another step forward in its transition to a cleaner, faster ferry network with Auckland Transport’s first 300-seat (F360 300) plug-in hybrid electric fast ferry performing well on sea trials and officially receiving its Certificate of Survey from Maritime New Zealand.

On trials, the vessel achieved a top speed of 36 knots in all-electric mode, with the performance of the electric propulsion and onboard systems consistently meeting and surpassing expectations.

Designed by Incat Crowther, built by Q-West Boat Builders with systems integration by HamiltonJet, the operationally flexible 32-meter vessel is the first in of two new plug-in hybrid electric fast ferries that will be operated by Fullers360 for Auckland Transport.

Capable of transporting up to 299 passengers and 20 bicycles at speeds of up to 28 knots, the new vessel has been designed for safe, comfortable, and highly reliable commercial rapid transit ferry services. The passenger experience has been enhanced via the inclusion of a range of seating options – including tables and USB ports for those that need to work on their commute, fold-up luggage compartments and floor-to-ceiling windows.

The vessel’s drivetrain includes four Danfoss EM-PMI540-T4000 electric motors, HamiltonJet HTX42 water jets, and state-of-the-art hybrid electric systems.

Incat Crowther utilized its cutting-edge digital shipbuilding technology in designing the support systems for the electric propulsion system. These include liquid cooling systems featuring pumps and heat exchangers for e-motors, converters, inverters and switchboards, and chillers for batteries. The design also features electrical equipment and cable route arrangement to minimize electromagnetic interference, the selection and integration of fire suppression systems, and battery room ventilation systems.

Weight control for all these systems has been critical, with each item weighed and tracked throughout construction.

The vessel’s drivetrain has the ability to employ a pair of range-extending generators that can be used in conjunction with the battery bank. This technology supports electrification and the reduction of emissions while delivering on timetable and range requirements.

The two new vessels are also future-proofed and can be retrofitted to operate on hydrogen fuel for increased range in the future.

The new vessel will contribute to Auckland Transport’s mission to modernize and decarbonize the city’s ferry fleet. The vessel is expected to reduce carbon emissions by 750,000 kg per year.

“Incat Crowther has been great to work with throughout this project, from the inception phase through to rollout,” said Liam Dowling, head of innovations and asset development at Fullers360 which has acted as client representative and project manager on the build. “The flexibility, adaptability and spirit of partnership that’s gone through this project has been key to making Auckland’s first plug-in electric-hybrid ferry a reality.”

Dan Mace, Incat Crowther’s technical manager, said: “This new vessel will offer Aucklanders a world-class, low-emission travel experience. Incat Crowther’s expertise in conceptualising the vessel design to ensure it is tailored for Auckland Transport’s operational requirements, combined with the application of the latest digital shipbuilding technology, was critical to the successful delivery of this project. This tailored design approach also ensured the vessel’s electric drive system was accurately and reliably integrated from the outset. Embedding digital shipbuilding processes throughout the project will also provide a range of benefits to Auckland Transport and Fullers360 over the long term – including lower maintenance costs and improved operational outcomes through streamlined training for staff.”

• Vessel particulars HERE