Sea trials have commenced in the harbor of Hobart, Tasmania, for the globe’s most substantial vessel operating entirely on battery power. This undertaking was executed by the Australian shipyard Incat Tasmania, commissioned by the Argentine ferry operator Buquebus. The vessel in question is the Hull 096 design, christened the China Zorrilla.
These trials mark a world premiere: a vessel of this magnitude has taken to the water and propelled itself utilizing solely its onboard traction batteries, entirely foregoing traditional fossil fuels. This ferry carries zero fuel whatsoever and features an energy storage system weighing roughly 250 metric tons. This arrangement incorporates over five thousand lithium-ion cells, housed across four separate, sealed compartments. With a total capacity surpassing 40 MWh, this setup represents the largest battery complex ever installed aboard a marine craft.
The China Zorrilla measures 130 meters in length and 32 meters across its beam. It is designed to accommodate up to 2,100 passengers alongside space for 225 automobiles. Upon conclusion of all testing procedures, the ferry is slated for service on the route across the Río de la Plata, connecting Argentina and Uruguay. The ship’s nomenclature pays homage to the stage name once used by a prominent Uruguayan actress.
The battery installation powers not just the ship’s auxiliary functions but also the eight electric waterjet thrusters that propel the craft. The adoption of a fully electric configuration has eliminated harmful emissions, even under heavy operational conditions, and has considerably reduced noise pollution—a critical factor for high-traffic passenger routes.
The debut of the China Zorrilla in these initial trials signifies a major milestone in preparation for its forthcoming commercial service and vividly showcases the viability of electrical solutions within the realm of large-scale maritime transport.
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