Zero emissions ferry in testing phase

European yards and boat builders competed for a construction tender to create the demo vessel, the result of the part EU-funded BB GREEN project, and Latvia-based BJB (Latitude Yachts) were awarded the contract.

BB GREEN stated the ferry’s innovation lies in its air support concept which reduces water resistance combined with a fast lithium ion titianate battery to realise the vessels electric power and zero emissions operational ability.

The patented air supported vessel (ASV) is designed to reach speeds of 30 knots per hour and incorporates the use of pressurized air, captured in a hull integrated cavity underneath the vessel, to support up to 80% of the operational weight.

This creates a “cushion of air” between hull and water, explained BB GREEN, not unlike a hovercraft but without use of any fragile rubber skirts or bags.

A twin installation of contra rotating duo-prop pod propulsors will be used and electric permanent magnet motors will power the pods.

“Carbon sandwich” construction materials and engineering services will be supplied by Norwegian company Diab AS.

BB GREEN has confirmed BJB is ready to start commercial production of the ferry at its yard in Riga, Latvia.

BB GREEN has a budget of EUR3,125m and is partly funded by the 7th Framework Program of the European Commission. Involving eight organisations coordinated by SES Europe AS, it has a 44-month plan to implement green transport across Europe and beyond.

Visiting Oslo for the Nor-Shipping event, the commuter ferry was open for viewing and demonstrations in May and June in a bid to get transport sector decision makers and other stakeholders on board.