Largest battery hybrid RoPax in N America

EBDG will be responsible for redesigning the vessels to accommodate the major change in propulsion type without disrupting structural components. The ferries will operate on all-battery power during crossings or can revert to a hybrid, diesel-electric propulsion if required.

Earlier this year, Washington State’s legislature authorised a contract extension for Vigor to build up to five hybrid-electric versions of their 144-vehicle Olympic Class. EBDG brings an advantage to the project team with experience gained from design work on the last twenty vessels built for WSF.

The firm has also been a major contributor to WSF’s electrification efforts by supporting hybrid feasibility studies and life-cycle cost analyses for both the Jumbo Mark II and Olympic Class ferries. “We have supported WSF with naval architecture and engineering support since 1992,” explained Brian King, president of EBDG. “Our involvement in the hybridisation of the ferries is a natural progression that we are immensely proud to be a part of.”

WSF operates the largest ferry system in the US, with 23 vessels, 20 terminals and 23 million passengers each year. The hybrid-electric design phase is underway with construction expected to begin in 2020 and delivery of the first vessel in late 2022. The vessel is expected to be the largest new-build battery-powered ferry in North America.