ABB supplies propulsion systems for four hybrid ferries in Canada

Swiss technology group ABB has received an order for an energy, propulsion, and control solution for four new hybrid ferries operated by BC Ferries in Canada. The vessels are being built by CMI Weihai in China and are scheduled for delivery starting in 2029.

Hybrid faehre bc ferries x abb x cmi weihai — Image: BC Ferries

As one of the world’s largest ferry operators, British Columbia Ferry Services (BC Ferries) serves 47 terminals year-round across 25 routes, transporting approximately 9.7 million vehicles and 22.7 million passengers annually. As part of its ‘New Major Vessels’ programme, BC Ferries is now procuring four new double-ended ferries, vessels equipped with ramps on both sides for vehicle loading and unloading.

While the exact specifications for the ferries are not yet available, requirements from a BC Ferries project tender indicate their size class: the ferries are expected to be around 172 metres long, with a capacity for 360 cars and 2,100 passengers each. They will operate in Canada’s Strait of Georgia, the body of water separating Vancouver Island from the Lower Mainland of British Columbia.

In June, the Chinese shipyard CMI Weihai, which has previously built a hybrid ferry for service in the English Channel, was commissioned to construct the four ferries. These vessels will be equipped with diesel-battery hybrid propulsion systems and designed for future conversion to fully electric operation. The hybrid ferries are expected to significantly reduce greenhouse gas emissions, improve fuel efficiency, and lower underwater noise to better protect marine life, such as the orcas inhabiting the operational area.

It was only recently announced that the energy, propulsion, and control technology for the vessels will be supplied by the Swiss company ABB. The ferries will be fitted with ABB’s gearless, steerable Azipod electric propulsion system. Additionally, ABB’s Onboard DC Grid power distribution system will be installed to ensure efficient energy flow: it minimises conversion losses, enhances overall system efficiency, and reduces emissions compared to conventional propulsion systems.

Each ferry can be equipped with battery storage systems with a capacity of 70 megawatt-hours (MWh). This not only enables efficient hybrid operation but also simplifies a future transition to fully electric operation. The hybrid configuration will use biofuel or renewable diesel. For fully electric operation, the vessels can be connected to a shoreside charging system with a capacity exceeding 60 megawatts —150 times more powerful than a standard 400 kW fast-charging station. Furthermore, ABB will supply digital solutions to provide crews with a clear overview of vessel operations, contributing to safer and more efficient ferry services.

abb.com