Green ferry concept
Latvian based boatbuilder Latitude Yachts has launched what it calls a game-changing new electric ASV commuter ferry.
BB Green is geared towards the short sea shipping sector as a greener more efficient option to other ferries helping to contribute to greener waterborne transport in Europe and beyond.
The ferry is the culmination of a 44 month collaborative R&D project, partly funded by the7th Framework Program of the European Commission.
Its new, patented Air Supported Vessel (ASV) technology can reduce hull water resistance by up to 40%. About 80% of the vessel’s weight is supported on a cushion of air, courtesy of an electric lift fan system and the unique ASV hull form. This cuts emissions and increases efficiency.
The vessel is constructed from carbon sandwich which makes it light, strong and suited for efficient series production.
Instead of diesel motors, the vessel has electric drivelines. Power is sourced from an Emrol designed Lithium Ion Titianate battery bank. The new battery module is light-weight, yet has a high performance.
Efficient contra-rotating pod propulsion contributes to excellent performance, maneuverability and onboard safety.
Initially, the BB Green vessels will have a range of up to 14NM at high speed, even more at slow speed.
The batteries can be recharged in less than 30 minutes which should make the new ferry concept very competitive on a number of routes.
The yard is now ready to start commercial production.
Related Articles
ALTERNATIVE FUELS GREENPORT