Incat Launches the World’s Largest Fully Electric Ferry – Bound for Argentina
Tasmanian shipbuilding company Incat has launched the world’s largest fully electric ferry – a 130-meter-long catamaran named China Zorrilla. Once fully outfitted, the vessel will transport 2,100 passengers and 226 vehicles across the Río de la Plata between Argentina and Uruguay. Battery installation and final outfitting are scheduled for completion in 2025, after which the ship will be delivered to its operator.
The catamaran, built under project name Hull 096, will be powered by a massive 40 MWh battery system weighing 250 tons – one of the largest battery packs ever installed on a ship. In early 2023, Argentine operator Buquebus made the decision to abandon LNG-powered engines in favor of a fully electric propulsion system, prioritizing environmental sustainability.
Initially, the plan was to equip the vessel with diesel generators and fuel tanks due to the lack of charging infrastructure along the route. However, the issue now appears resolved. Retractable charging cables will be installed on both sides of the ferry, enabling 30–40 minute fast charging during stops, as well as longer overnight charging sessions.
Despite its size and weight, the vessel will reach speeds of up to 25 knots on electric propulsion. While that’s slower than the 37.5 knots achievable with gas engines, the emissions-free operation offsets the speed difference.
Incat emphasized in its press release that China Zorrilla is not only the largest electric ship ever built but also the largest electric transportation vehicle of its kind in the world — and one of the most significant export projects in Australian shipbuilding history.
Buquebus, the ship’s operator, intends for future ferries in its fleet to also be fully electric.
