The world’s largest electric ship, “China Zorrilla”, has officially been launched. Built in Tasmania by Australian shipbuilder Incat and prepared for ferry company Buquebus, the vehicle could herald a new era in electric maritime transport.
The world’s largest electric ship has launched
The 130-meter-long ship can reach a 40 MWh energy capacity with its 250-ton battery system. This capacity is approximately four times the size of the largest battery-powered ships used so far.
When completed, the ferry will transport passengers and vehicles between Buenos Aires and Uruguay. With a capacity to carry 2,100 passengers and 225 vehicles, China Zorrilla will make a difference not only with its size but also with the services it offers.
The duty-free shopping section located in the interior of the ship, covering an area of 2,300 square meters, will be one of the largest commercial areas on a ferry. The energy management at the heart of the electric system is provided by eight electric water jet engines developed by Wärtsilä.
The energy obtained from the 250-ton battery is directly transferred to these engines. The final stages that the ferry will go through before it becomes operational include the installation of battery systems, hardware integration and the assembly of energy storage systems.
The ship, which was designed as Incat Hull 096, will serve with this name in memory of Uruguayan cinema and theater artist China Zorrilla. Once completed, the ship will be at the top of the list of electric ferries in terms of both carrying capacity and battery size.
Trial voyages are planned to begin this year. So what do you think about this vehicle? You can share your opinions with us in the comments section below.
