b'FOGHORN FOCUSThe new hybrid ferries offer a reduction in CO2 emissions of up to 30 percent and are designed to allow for possible future upgrade to methanol-fueled versions of the engines. With the press of a single button, the operator can switch between electric mode and diesel mode. Systems, RINA, and the designer Incat Crowther. Rolls- Duringopensea,high-speednavigation,two2560kW Royce, RINA (RINA USA, Inc.), and Incat Crowther are(3432bhp)combustionenginesdrivethepropellersdi-all PVA members. The new vessel designs were for twelverectly, enabling the vessels to cruise at up to 30 knots. At high-speed, battery hybrid ferries with a lightweight alu- the same time, they drive the hybrid electric motors via minum construction and a propulsion system that wouldthe gearboxes to charge the batteries and provide the hotel be capable of fulfilling the companys needs. In 2022, theelectrical load without having to operate gensets. The mtu production for twelve new ferries began.diesel propulsion engines from Rolls-Royce comply with IMO Tier III and U.S. EPA Tier IV emissions standards, These vessels have been the first to obtain RINA Greenare capable of operating on HVO (hydrotreated vegetable Plus certification. The new hybrid ferries offer a reductionoil) fuel, and emit low levels of NOx and particulates. This in COemissions of up to 30 percent and NOx by aboutvessel design allows for a possible future upgrade to meth-280percentcomparedtosimilarunitsofthepreviousanol-fueled versions of the engines, a long-term consider-RENDERING AND PHOTO: ROLLS-ROYCE POWER SYSTEMSfleet. Theyre able to sail in fully electric mode enteringation for the project. and leaving ports for silent, emission-free operation. This is especially important in some of the small ports whichThe weight of the vessels was a key concern to maximize are frequently used by families for swimming and recre- propulsion efficiency and reduce energy demands. This ational activities. While the combustion engines are notpresented a significant challenge for the technical teams operating, batteries provide electric power for propulsioninvolved. Incat Crowther set out to design the lightest via hybrid motor/generators, as well as for vessel electricalandmostefficientaluminumhullwhileRolls-Royce services and bow thrusters. For longer stopovers, shorePower Systems proposed a lightweight and efficient hy-power, or cold ironing, can be used to recharge the batter- brid propulsion system. The system in place is based on a ies and to maintain onboard electrical services which alsocompact and light DC-grid architecture which allows the helps lower the COfootprint.use of permanent magnet electric motor/generators and 2FOGHORN 20'