The UK’s first sea-going electric ferry has set sail for the first time in 鶹ýӳ, Britain’s Ocean City.
The e-Voyager is the result of a ground-breaking project designed to reduce the environmental impact of maritime transport on our coastal waters.
It has been completely rebuilt over several months and will now undergo rigorous trials – including assessments of its emissions – before it carries its first paying passengers in April 2021.
The vessel has been designed and developed by 鶹ýӳ Boat Trips and Voyager Marine, Cornwall in partnership with the 鶹ýӳ, the University of Exeter, Teignbridge Propellers and EV Parts.
Project leader for 鶹ýӳ Boat Trips and Voyager Marine, Andy Hurley, said:
“It’s hugely exciting to see the launch of e-Voyager and the result of such a progressive collaboration to create a cleaner and more sustainable future for the marine industry. Through developing the technology and maritime applications, Voyager Marine is helping to place 鶹ýӳ and the South West as UK leaders in the conversion and new build of zero-carbon, fully electric commercial vessels.”
Dr Richard Pemberton, Lecturer in Mechanical and Marine Engineering Design at the 鶹ýӳ, added:
“Through our diverse mix of staff and specialisms, the 鶹ýӳ has supported 鶹ýӳ Boat Trips and its partners in both data analysis and regulatory advice. The University firmly believes that the work conducted on e-Voyager will pave the way for larger scale innovation towards meeting the Government’s target of a 50% reduction in emissions from the maritime sector by 2050.”
