Ferry Barcelona. Foto: Molabo
Molabo (eMove360° Exhibitor 2024), a leading provider of high-performance and touch-safe electric propulsion systems based in Ottobrunn near Munich, has equipped the Port of Barcelona’s newest all-electric commuter ferry, the Ecocat Tres, with its ARIES i50 electric inboard motors. This state-of-the-art ferry is part of Bus Nàutic, an environmentally friendly boat service connecting Barcelona’s Drassanes and Llevant ports. This initiative, supported by the Barcelona Port Authority and operated by ALSA, offers an environmentally friendly alternative to land transport, reduces congestion, and supports the city’s sustainability goals.
Built by Metaltec Naval, the 15-meter-long aluminum catamaran accommodates 84 passengers and features a roof deck with additional seating. The ferry operates at least 12 hours a day and operates every 15 to 30 minutes between the two piers, with each crossing taking approximately 10 minutes. The electric propulsion system, powered by two ARIES i50 Molabo engines, enables a top speed of 12 knots. With a service speed of 5 knots, the Ecocat Tres can cruise for up to 21 hours on a single battery charge, providing passengers with efficient and reliable service.
The 48V ARIES i50 Molabo engines offer a safe, quiet, and highly efficient alternative to conventional high-voltage systems. They significantly reduce onboard noise and vibration, thus providing a more comfortable cruising experience. The propulsion and power system, supplied by Azimut Marine, includes two ARIES 50 kW inboard electric drives, 36 batteries (216 kWh total capacity), rapid chargers, and integrated solar panels that cover up to 40% of the catamaran’s total energy consumption.
“The integration of our ARIES i50 engines into Barcelona’s Bus Nàutic fleet underscores our commitment to making maritime transport quieter, cleaner, and more reliable,” says Adrian Patzak, COO of Molabo GmbH. “Our low-voltage propulsion solutions deliver sufficient power for this large, heavy passenger ferry while being simple and safe to maintain and repair. By eliminating the challenges of conventional high-voltage electric propulsion, the Ecocat Tres sets a new standard for practical, economical, and sustainable urban mobility on water.”
90 tons of CO₂ saved per year: With its emission-free operation, the Ecocat Tres is expected to save 90 tons of CO₂ per year, making a significant contribution to Barcelona’s environmental goals. The President of the Port of Barcelona, José Antonio Carbonell, emphasizes: “The launch of the new electric water taxi represents a significant step in our commitment to sustainability. This 100% electric, zero-emission passenger ferry will help us redesign mobility in the port and accelerate the decarbonization of our operations.”
This article appeared in the June issue of the eMove360° magazine. Download the free PDF or order the print version from sabine.metzger@emove360.com.
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