Damen Shipyards unveils electric ferry for public transport
The fully electric model is the latest evolution of the Waterbus 2907, which was originally designed as a hybrid and prepared for future conversion to fully battery-electric operation. The first fully electric version builds on the experience gained from constructing the first-generation vessel, with improvements such as enhanced ergonomics in the wheelhouse and a 1000 V DC system architecture.
The 28.6-metre-long vessel can accommodate 130 passengers and is powered by two electric motors, each delivering 375 kW. For energy storage, it is equipped with two batteries, each with a capacity of 213 kWh. The 1000 V system of the electric ferry enables fast charging using ‘charging sockets proven in operation in the automotive sector,’ most likely CCS2. Additionally, the Waterbus 2907 Electric is prepared for the Megawatt Charging System, originally developed for electric trucks and buses. Damen Shipyards plans to conduct its first MCS tests later this year.
At the same time, Damen Shipyards recognises that the charging power required for electric vessels places significant demand on the electricity grid. To address this, Damen is collaborating with 30 industry stakeholders in the Charging Energy Hub project to develop battery charging solutions that reduce high grid loads and resulting bottlenecks. Stationary battery storage systems are also being used as a buffer to alleviate pressure on the grid.
“The development of the Waterbus 2907 Electric has been a fine balancing act,” said Damen’s Product Manager Fast and City Ferries Lodewijk van Os. “This is a vessel that will be in constant use, facing multiple mooring and boarding moments every hour of the day. As such, it needs to be robust. At the same time, however, it will operate in an environment where sustainability is paramount. We’ve put a lot of effort into creating a platform that is efficient in operation, producing zero emissions, and optimally comfortable for passengers.”
Jan van Ooijen, Design and Proposal Engineer for Public Transport at Damen, added: “There is a lot of experimentation taking place in electric waterborne public transportation currently. We see a lot of concepts in development. We wanted to take this to the next level of maturity with the creation of a solution that offers a reliable, sustainable service.”
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