Volvo and Danfoss power hybrid CTVs

Measuring 34.4 metres in length and with an 11 metre beam, MHO Asgard and MHO Apollo will be operated by MHO-Co, servicing the Hornsea Project 2 offshore wind farm in the North Sea.

The vessels’ power system is the result of a collaboration between Volvo Penta and Danfoss Editron. The companies have developed a fully integrated solution comprising a Danfoss Editron electric drivetrain supported by Volvo Penta variable speed gensets that drive two of the first Electric Volvo Penta Inboard Performance System (IPS) units as well as two D13 Volvo Penta IPS units.

“These systems are a very important first step towards the future of sustainable operations at sea,” said Mik Henriksen, chief executive of MHO-Co. “We believe it is our shared responsibility to drive more sustainable solutions in the marine sector, and the best way to do this is through collaboration.”

During the journey, seen as a pilot project, the companies were able to test different power combinations, such as diesel-electric operation or diesel-only. From these initial learnings, the teams have started adapting the drivetrain – not just the motors themselves – to all-electric propulsion needs.

Next steps

Before the vessels enter operation, batteries will be installed in Denmark to provide stored power for zero-emissions operation of up to eight hours or, in combination with diesel propulsion, to achieve a maximum speed of approximately 24 knots.