Overview
Waterborne transport solutions, presenting a step change in: public service offered, emitting zero greenhouse gas and introducing a climate friendly travel choice. In and around cities and densely populated areas with water way access, this transport system can contribute in the reduction of traffic congestions and improve traffic flow.
The BB GREEN project will develop and launch new, innovative and competitive waterborne transport solutions, presenting a step change in public service offered, emitting zero greenhouse gas and introducing a climate friendly travel choice. The approach is radical and brave. The new vessels can be introduced quickly, cost-efficient and without affecting current infrastructure. The battery powered, low wake wash, fast and efficient air supported craft will deliver a climate friendly waterborne travel choice across Europe. Feasibility will be demonstrated by means of a fully operational research and testing platform, to be trial operated under real life conditions with end users onboard to determine the market- and customers reactions.
The new transport system can contribute to reduce traffic congestions and improve traffic flow in and around cities and densely populated areas with water way access. The operational research platform will be a vital tool to accomplish a quick and effective dissemination of project results and pave way for the new, capable zero emission waterborne alternative.
To achieve the demanding main goal of demonstrating feasibility and market acceptance for the new solution, a holistic approach taking advantage of new and emerging technologies from the maritime sector (and other sectors) will be used. The proposed project meets all key EU objectives related to greening, CO2 emission, innovation and request for transport solutions able to meet future requirements.
Funding
Results
Ship hulls that ride on a cushion of air
An EU-funded project is unveiling an innovative and competitive waterborne transport solution with zero emissions, opening up a new world of possibilities for efficient electrically propelled vessels.
Numerous European cities exploit closed waterways and ferries to move passengers and goods within the local environment. Conventional ferries employ so-called all-wet hulls in which the entire hull is in contact with the water. This creates a large surface area for resistance and reduces efficiency and speed.
Scientists initiated the EU-funded project 'Battery powered boats, providing greening, resistance reduction, electric, efficient and novelty' (http://www.bbgreen.info/ (BB GREEN)) to develop the next generation of fast, efficient and emission-free commuter ferries for operation in sheltered waters. ASV hulls designed for more demanding operations are also available. The air-supported vessel (ASV) hull is supporting up to 85 % of full-load displacement on a cushion of pressurised air created with a lift fan system. The new ASV technology can reduce hull water resistance by 40 %.
The prototype will undergo extensive testing. For the follow up of the project the BB GREEN partners plan a European “dissemination road show” with the prototype vessel.
To reduce the vessel weight and boost overall efficiency BB GREEN vessels will have a carbon construction. Diesel engines are being replaced with battery electric drivelines for eco-friendly commuting. The lithium-titanate battery capacity will be 400 kilowatt-hours, sufficient to operate at design speeds of 30 knots for about 14 nautical miles between recharging. The zero-emission commuter ferry will be the first-ever 30-knots-fast ASV ferry.
Efficient contra-rotating pod propulsion systems will secure high efficiency, excellent manoeuvrability and on-board safety.
A full-scale ASV is under construction, and once completed it will be thoroughly tested. Battery electric drivelines and the lift fan system are also under construction. The BB GREEN team will then document performance and capabilities under typical operational conditions.
The new transport system will contribute to reducing traffic congestion in cities with inland waterways, with considerable environmental benefits. Press coverage and several articles disseminated project findings. The team has also participated in numerous conferences and exhibitions.