Some of the New Products on Show
Beluga 24 – the world’s fastest emission-free passenger ferry
Beluga 24
Beyond a fantastic exhibition featuring over 230 exhibitors, Electric & Hybrid Marine Expo also features an exclusive conference (rates apply), where more than 120 speakers will share their expertise and insights across 13 dedicated sessions across three full days. The first morning included an update on Beluga 24 – said to be the world’s fastest emission-free passenger ferry – with the latest from Hans Thornell, founder and chairman of Green City Ferries AB.
The Swedish company began life by purchasing the former ship Movitz, then rebuilding it into the world’s first supercharged electric ferry in 2014. Its next breakthrough was the launch of the air-supported BB Green prototype in 2016. Next year, the foil-assisted emission-free Beluga 24 is set to enter operation.
During his presentation, Thornell, previously a lieutenant commander in the Swedish Navy, explained how, working with some of the world’s best experts, Green City Ferries now has a 150-passenger ferry capable of producing 30kts of energy from either batteries or hydrogen.
“In the high-speed segment, it is all about energy efficiency, because batteries, as well as fuel cell installations, weigh a lot more than diesel drivelines,” said Thornell. He went on to outline the challenges and choices made, while also covering the technical, economic and political challenges; the impact of efficiency; the performance of Beluga 24; and the choices made during the initial design phase.