Auckland ferry operator Fullers360 has awarded Q-West Boat Builders of Whanganui a contract for the construction of a new electric catamaran vessel.
The all-aluminium, 34-metre ferry was designed specifically to transport up to 299 passengers along the route between Auckland and Devonport. The vessel cabin will be modular, with the main deck configured for metro operations and overflow capacity to the upper deck.
The drivetrain will consist of four Danfoss electric motors directly mounted to Hamilton waterjets. This configuration will deliver a maximum speed of just over 28 knots.
The drivetrain will also feature the ability to employ a pair of range-extending generators that can be used in conjunction with the battery bank. This technology will support the electrification transition whilst the charging network is expanded to allow all-electric operation on longer trips.
The design is also compatible to be refitted with hydrogen fuel for increased range as the fuel becomes more widely available in the future.
Midship boarding doors for passengers will be similar to those on existing vessels in the Fullers360 fleet. This will ensure integration into the existing jetty infrastructure on the route.
The ferry will also have space for up to 28 bicycles.
