By
Alex Smith |
Ferry operator Sun Ferry Services Company is to deploy two new hybrid, double-end ferries in Hong Kong, equipped with battery and solar power technology.
Designed by Dutch naval architect design and development company CoCo Yachts, the Urban Sprinters 1000 ferries will transport around four million passengers a year between Central Pier and Cheung Chau Pier. Both vessels will be built by YaGuang Technology in Zhuhai, China.
The ferries will feature an aluminium hull and superstructure. The first vessel will be built with hybrid diesel-electric propulsion and will produce zero emissions when sailing withing pier boundaries and during berthing. The second vessel will be built with diesel-electric propulsion. Both ships will have a battery pack for overnight energy to avoid having to continue running diesel generators.
Each vessel will be fitted will be fitted with four IMO tier III diesel generators, of which three will typically be in service while the fourth is on standby. They will also be equipped with four Azimuth L-type thrusters, each fitted with a permanent magnet electric motor.
The third deck on each ferry will feature an open area accessible to passengers, as well as being partly covered by solar panels to provide additional power and reduce the vessel’s overall emissions. Passenger accommodation will be available on the main and upper deck.
The design and building of the vessels will be surveyed and certified by Bureau Veritas. All flag-related items, including safety and stability, will be delegated from Hong Kong Marine Department to the certification company.
“BV is very proud to play a significant role in this partnership with CoCo Yachts, YaGuang Technology and Sun Ferry, to deliver these innovative ferries for Hong Kong domestic waters,” said Alex Gregg-Smith, senior vice president and chief executive of North Asia and China at Bureau Veritas Marine and Offshore. “BV is honoured to support the project from its inception, providing full plan approval and design support, and we are happy to help advance innovation that is much needed to achieve a carbon neutral and sustainable future for the benefit of all marine stakeholders, the environment and society as a whole.”
The first Urban Sprinter 1000 ferry is expected to be delivered in the second quarter of 2024, while the second vessel will be delivered in the first quarter of 2025.