Indian Register of Shipping classes first 100 pax hybrid battery-powered catamaran ferry

The 24.8 metre catamaran ferry, designed for shore charging and certified to carry 100 passengers, is propelled by hybrid electric propulsion system by means of Lithium Titanium Oxide (LTO) batteries and diesel gensets. The capacity of installed batteries is 122 kWh, and they are capable of fast charging.

The vessel is owned by Kochi Metro Rail Limited (KMRL) and is a part of an integrated water transport system for Kochi City. The vessels are expected to be operating on 15 identified routes connecting 41 jetties across 10 island communities.

The project is a step forward in India’s AtmaNirbhar Bharat strategy (Self-Reliant India) and represents the collective efforts of CSL, KMRL and IRS.

IRS has developed Guidelines for battery powered vessels, and the vessel was assigned with the notation BATTERY PROP. With the growing trend in use of battery power for vessel propulsion/ auxiliaries; the experience gained through this project has helped IRS to develop a greater understanding of the challenges in use of battery systems for domestic ferries. IRS is now ready to provide a holistic solution to industry on battery powered vessels both for newbuilds and retrofits.