Spring blossoms in full splendor, painting a vibrant scene where greenery thrives!. As eco-friendly new energy meets ultra-lightweight carbon fiber, China's first carbon fiber hybrid vessel-the "Hong Kong New Ferry 500-Passenger Hybrid High-Speed Catamaran"-has officially set sail.
China Shipbuilding 712 Research Institute provided the vessel's full hybrid power system solution, featuring two main diesel engines as primary propulsion units, complemented by two shaft-mounted PTI/PTO motors and lithium iron phosphate batteries. In pure electric propulsion mode, the lithium batteries power all onboard AC loads while driving the shaft-mounted PTI/PTO motors. These motors then propel waterjets via gearboxes, achieving a maximum speed of 10 knots. In diesel propulsion mode, the diesel engines drive the waterjets through gearboxes for vessel movement while simultaneously operating the shaft-mounted PTI/PTO motors in generator mode. This setup recharges the batteries and supplies power to AC loads, enabling a top speed of 26 knots.
Through optimized design, the vessel maintains balanced lithium battery levels by the end of each voyage. Innovatively pairing a carbon fiber hull with new energy systems, the project significantly reduces vessel weight and energy consumption, pioneering the integration of advanced materials and clean energy in China's maritime sector. Equipped with China Shipbuilding 712's latest remote operation and maintenance system, the vessel ensures efficient after-sales servicing for its power systems. As one of Hong Kong's first new energy vessel initiatives, this project holds landmark significance for advancing green shipping across the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area.
