Powered by more than 250 tonnes of batteries and with the ability to carry 2100 passengers, Hull 096 has been hailed as one of Australia’s greatest exports.
The 130m-long vessel, officially launched in Hobart by shipbuilder Incat on Friday, is the world’s largest battery-electric ship.
It was commissioned by South American ferry operator Buquebus and will take people, as well as 225 vehicles, between Argentina and Uruguay.
“I’ve been in the marine business for nearly 70 years. This is the biggest moment in that 70-year history,” Incat chairman and founder Bob Clifford said.
Incat said the vessel, which will sail under the name China Zorrilla – a Uruguayan actress – was “one of the most significant export achievements in Australian history”.
Once fully fitted, it will feature the largest retail shopping space on any ferry, spanning 2300sq m.
It carries a 40-megawatt energy storage system and will charge via ports on each side of the River Pate.
Mr Clifford said it could charge as quickly as 40 minutes, depending on the availability of electricity.
“It is the future of short-sea shipping. This technology is good for 50-100 miles,” he said.
“It won’t be long before it is 200 miles. The advancement is going to continue.”
Construction of Hull 096 was made possible by a $60 million low-interest commercial loan provided through the Tasmanian Development Board.
It will undergo further fit outs and is expected to be put through sea trials in Hobart’s River Derwent by the end of 2025.
Premier Jeremy Rockliff said Tasmania had long been a leader in maritime innovation.
“Incat’s latest achievement is a testament to our state’s world-class shipbuilding capabilities and proud seafaring heritage,” he said.
Mr Clifton said Incat had expansion plans and companies, particularly in Europe, were crying out for electric ships.
There were 10 larger ships “in the works”, he said.
“Within five years I would seriously hope to be building four ships a year. I think that’s only the beginning,” he said.
“We have a head start, we are leading the world with this type of lightweight ship.”
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