A major breakthrough in sustainable transportation is on the horizon for New York's waterways, as Incat Crowther has begun detailed development and naval architecture on a hydrogen fuel cell-electric fast ferry design. The project, which aims to reduce emissions and increase operational flexibility, is being carried out in partnership with zero-emission vessel developer SWITCH Maritime. With initial deployment targeted for New York waters, this innovative vessel is set to transform the way people move around the city.
The new 28-metre hydrogen fuel cell-electric ferry will be capable of transporting 150 passengers at a cruising speed of 25 knots, making it an ideal solution for high-frequency commuter routes in both the United States and around the world. The operationally flexible vessel will have 720 kilograms of stored, compressed hydrogen capacity giving it the ability to operate on a range of routes across New York ferry networks with a full day of operational range.
The development of this new vessel is supported by a $US2 million grant from the New York State Energy Research and Development Authority (NYSERDA), which builds on the successful partnership between Incat Crowther and SWITCH. The two companies have recently partnered on the design, delivery and regulatory approval for Sea Change – the world’s first zero-emissions hydrogen fuel cell-powered electric-drive high speed passenger ferry.
In this project, vessel modernization and emission reduction will be achieved through the deployment of hydrogen fuel over other low and zero emission technologies. The use of hydrogen fuel in this case offers considerable flexibility and presents a zero-emission transport solution for fleets with longer range requirements and those operating in areas where shoreside charging for battery-electric propulsion may not be technically or economically feasible.
The new vessel’s design will also prioritize the passenger experience, featuring comfortable seating for 150 passengers, ample luggage storage, a kiosk, three bathrooms including a wheelchair accessible bathroom, and large windows to allow passengers to enjoy the iconic views on New York’s waterways. This focus on comfort and convenience is a key aspect of the project, which aims to provide operators with commercially viable vessels that future-proof ferry fleets.
The deployment of hydrogen fuel cell-electric propulsion and hydrogen storage systems in this new vessel ensures that it can maintain an operational profile similar to that of a diesel vessel. This means parallel service speeds, a daily bunkering schedule, no need to increase dwell time or alter service to account for vessel charging, and no investment in costly shoreside charging infrastructure and power grid upgrades.
The project team is planning to deploy a ZEF-150 demonstration based at the Brooklyn Navy Yard, which will provide a real-world testing ground for the new vessel. The deployment of this demonstration vessel marks an important step forward in the development of hydrogen fuel cell-electric propulsion technology, and demonstrates the potential for this technology to transform the way people move around cities.
The partnership between Incat Crowther and SWITCH Maritime is a key aspect of this project, which aims to provide operators with commercially viable vessels that future-proof ferry fleets. By working together, these companies are able to leverage their expertise and resources to develop innovative solutions that meet existing performance standards while reducing emissions.
With the successful deployment of Sea Change – the world’s first zero-emissions hydrogen fuel cell-powered electric-drive high speed passenger ferry – this new project builds on the company's reputation for innovation and sustainability. The deployment of this new vessel is a major step forward in the transition to cleaner, more sustainable transportation options, and marks an important milestone in the development of hydrogen fuel cell-electric propulsion technology.
