Artemis Technologies has unveiled the design of its new 100% electric EF-24 high-speed passenger ferry.
This electric ferry one of several zero-emission vessels being developed by Artemis Technologies in Belfast, Northern Ireland.
With a top speed of 38 knots, it offers a range of 115 nautical miles at a 25 knots cruise speed.
The 24-metre vessels will be powered by Artemis’s eFoiler electric propulsion system and will fly above the water to provide a comfortable ride for up to 150 passengers. This will reduce the effects of seasickness and produce minimal wake at high-speed to significantly reduce the impact on shorelines.
Artemis Technologies was founded by two-time Olympic champion Dr Iain Percy OBE.
Iain Percy OBE said:We have combined our experience from the worlds of high-performance sailing, motorsports, aerospace, and advanced manufacturing to design and develop an electric propulsion system that is quite simply a game changer for the maritime industry.
Our high-speed passenger ferry provides a cost-effective public transport solution that helps address air pollution, congestion, and noise.
By encouraging multimodal transport in urban areas, we will enable cities around the world to utilise and benefit from the untapped potential of their waterways.
The ferries will be fully accessible and spacious and will include a range of facilities such as bike racks, luggage storage, baby changing and charging points.
The vessels will also feature a unique high-speed collision avoidance system developed with ECIT, part of Queen’s University Belfast. The system will ensure safe operations in port and close to shore by safely diverting the ferry away from sea life, wildlife, debris and other in-water objects that might otherwise be obscured from view.
Artemis Technologies has partnered with Condor Ferries to operate a pilot scheme using the first EF-24 passenger ferry. This will come into service in 2024, running between Belfast and Bangor in Northern Ireland.
Secretary of State for Northern Ireland Chris Heaton-Harris said:My congratulations to Artemis Technologies and Belfast Maritime Consortium on unveiling the plans for this exciting zero emissions vessel. The development of such world-leading technology will ensure that Belfast remains at the forefront of maritime innovation, while providing a boost to the local green economy.
