Largest battery powers electric ferry

author: FutureCar Staff    

Wärtsilä in Finland has partnered with Corvus Energy to commission the world's largest ship battery for an electric ferry in South America. Corvus will supply a 40MWh lithium polymer battery system for the largest 100% lightweight electric ferry in the world. This battery system will be four times bigger than the current largest installation onboard a ship.

The aluminum-constructed vessel will be built by Incat shipyard in Tasmania on behalf of Buquebus, the South American customer. With an overall length of 130m, the ferry will have the capacity to accommodate 2100 passengers and crew, 225 cars, and a 2000 square meter Duty-Free Shop, all on one level.

Not only will this vessel be the largest of its kind, but it will also have the highest energy storage system (ESS) capacity and the longest zero-emission journey at the highest speed. Additionally, it will be charged using the world's highest capacity chargers.

The delivery of the battery system, which utilizes the Corvus Dolphin NextGen lightweight battery, is expected to be completed by the end of 2024. This battery is based on the Corvus Blue Whale ESS development program, which involved a comprehensive redesign of battery design, including chemistry, mechanical and electrical design, and software building blocks.

The vessel is scheduled to enter operation in 2025, marking a significant milestone in the maritime industry's transition towards greener transportation. Halvard Hauso, Commercial Director Europe at Corvus Energy, expressed gratitude for being chosen as a partner for this groundbreaking project and highlighted the project's potential to pave the way for other large, zero-emission vessels.

This electric ferry will also be the first of its kind in South America, operating between Argentina and Uruguay. Hauso emphasized the importance of this milestone in showcasing the increasing adoption of maritime electrification worldwide, not just in Europe.

Corvus Energy specializes in providing sustainable power to hybrid and all-electric heavy industrial equipment, including large marine propulsion drives. With nearly 900 projects, totaling over 750 MWh and more than 6 million operating hours, Corvus has extensive experience in the field. The company also collaborates with Toyota, the world leader in fuel cell technology, to develop maritime hydrogen fuel cells.

For more information, visit www.corvusenergy.com.

FutureCar Staff