Battery ferry design contract awarded

BMT says it has been tasked with providing the design based on its low resistance hull form technology, currently in use in several low wash catamaran ferries, as part of an initiative to show that marine transportation can provides a viable and environmentally-friendly alternative to land-based transport.

In addition to providing the fundamental naval architecture design, BMT will develop the layout and styling of the vessel to provide an elegant, yet simple design that reflects the vessel’s modern ‘green’ credentials and practical functionality as a passenger ferry. The design uses a proven catamaran hull form with VRB batteries providing the power to the electric drive motors, which will achieve a 10 knot service speed. Solar cells are incorporated into the roof structure to top up the batteries while the vessel is in use.

Construction of the vessel will start by the middle of 2011 with trials and delivery by mid- 2012.

Commenting on the technical aspects of the order Ed Dudson, technical director at BMT Nigel Gee, says: “This design has been an interesting challenge as we needed to balance the weight of the batteries against the vessel performance in order to ensure that a practical ferry service can be provided. Winning this contract further strengthens our commitment to developing innovative solutions for customers around the world, helping them to overcome their unique design challenges.”