World’s largest electric ferry completes maiden voyage

An all-electric ferry capable of carrying 30 vehicles and 200 passengers has completed its maiden voyage.

Powered by a 4.3MWh battery – the largest ever in a boat – e-ferry Ellen has set multiple records and firsts in electric marine propulsion, including the longest travel distance of any electric ferry, the most powerful all-electric ferry and the first ferry with no diesel generator on board. The battery system was developed by Leclanché, and Danfoss Editron supplied the electric motors.

“Over one year, the e-ferry will prevent the release into the atmosphere of 2,000 tons of CO2, 42 tons of NOx, 2.5 tons of particulates and 1.4 tons of SO2,” said Anil Srivastava, CEO of Leclanché. “This project demonstrates that we can replace fossil fuel thermal drives with clean energy today, and contribute to the fight against global warming and pollution for the well-being of our communities.”

The maiden voyage was between the ports of Søby and Fynshav, on the islands of Ærø and Als in southern Denmark, a trip that is seven times longer than any other e-ferry route.