Hull 096 moves under battery power for the first time as harbour trials begin on the River Derwent
Shipbuilder Incat Tasmania has reached a significant milestone in maritime innovation, with the world’s largest battery-electric ferry commencing harbour trials on the River Derwent for the first time.
The trials mark the inaugural operation of Hull 096 under its own battery-electric propulsion. At 130 metres in length, the vessel is the largest battery-electric ferry ever constructed and its successful movement signals the transition from construction to the operational testing phase.
The harbour trials will see the vessel undertake a carefully managed series of movements on the Derwent, allowing crews to test propulsion, manoeuvrability, control systems, and onboard operational performance in real-world conditions.
The trials represent the first time a ferry of this size and passenger-vehicle capacity has operated solely on battery power anywhere in the world, marking a major step forward for large-scale electric shipping.
Incat Tasmania’s Chairman Robert Clifford said the commencement of harbour trials was a critical moment for the project and the global maritime industry.
“This is the moment where the ship truly comes alive,” Mr Clifford said. “Moving Hull 096 under its own battery-electric power is a world first at this scale and confirms that electric propulsion is viable for large commercial vessels.”
“Harbour trials allow us to test how all systems perform together in the water. It’s a significant step towards delivery and another major milestone in the evolution of sustainable shipbuilding.”
The harbour trials form part of an extensive testing and commissioning program that will continue in the lead-up to the vessel’s delivery to Uruguayan operator Buquebús, South America.
