A quiet, comfortable commute with minimal environmental impact sounds too good to be true but is set to become a reality after Fullers360 today announced Auckland’s first electric hybrid ferry will be coming to the city’s shores.
The new electric vessel with hybrid capabilities is anticipated to be completed in 2023. It will have capacity to transport approximately 300 passengers servicing the company’s Devonport route, with capacity to travel to other destinations as needed. Designed by industry leader Incat Crowther, the vessel is a modular metro-level vessel, optimised to be up to 100% electric on the Devonport route reducing carbon emissions by 75,000kg per year on the Devonport route alone.
The modular metro-level vessel vessel has been designed for safe, comfortable and highly reliable rapid transit ferry services. It will feature a world leading energy propulsion control system from HamiltonJet, allowing it to operate at high speeds with enhanced manoeuvrability, all while using less diesel combined with electrical grid energy and delivering greater operational resilience.
The introduction of an electric hybrid vessel to Fullers360’s fleet will provide a more sustainable mode of transport for customers while enhancing outcomes for the beautiful Hauraki Gulf. The vessel will transform the ferry experience for Fullers360’s customers with smoother and quieter sailings and capacity for 30 bikes onboard.
There are countless harbour cities in the world that are like Auckland, through investing back into the local marine industry, Auckland will not only be one of the first cities in the world to have an electric hybrid ferry, but New Zealand also has an opportunity to scale its marine technology credentials and contribute towards a more sustainable future.
Fullers360 has invested more than $1M into the research and development of electric vessels to deliver state of the art technology and a superior commuter experience.
Fullers360’s electric hybrid fast ferry is due to begin construction in April 2022.
