Australian shipbuilding company Incat Tasmania has successfully completed the first tests of the electric motor of its new vessel, Hull 096, company representatives said. The test took place on December 14, 2025 in Hobart. It is the world’s largest all-electric ferry.

“This is the first time in the world that a vessel of this size is powered solely by battery propulsion. This is a remarkable achievement by our people and a turning point in shipbuilding,” said Robert Clifford, Chairman of the Board of Directors of Incat.

“Tasmania has been a leader in aluminum shipbuilding for decades, and now we are showing what’s possible in a new era of sustainable, high-performance ships,” he added.

How does the ferry work?

The ferry is powered by a massive energy storage system weighing than 275 tons. Power exceeds40 megawatt hours,which is four times than previous marine battery installations. This is enough for a full 90-minute trip across the river with a full load (2,100 passengers and 220 cars). We can add that this allows the ship to operate without recharging for the entire voyage.

The system consists of5016 lithium-ion batteries housed in four rooms and divided into 12 blocks of 418 modules, each with a separate fan for cooling.

Battery power powers eight electric water jetsproviding the necessary traction. For fast recharging, specialized infrastructure is provided at both ends of the route,allowing you to charge your batteries in just 40 minutes.

The ship offers passengers a unique experience, with the largest shopping area of ​​any ferry on board. This combination of environmental friendliness and service allows us to create a convenient and comfortable environment even for long flights. The simultaneous transportation of than two thousand passengers and hundreds of cars makes the building an important element of transport infrastructure.

Ecological significance

Shipping is responsible for almost80% of world freight traffic and about 3%global greenhouse gas emissions, notes the United Nations Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD). Electric ferries like Hull 096 can significantly reduce the industry’s carbon footprint.

“We are showing that advanced manufacturing is not only alive and well in Australia, but is setting global standards. This ship will be a flagship for what is possible when industry, design and clean energy come together,” Clifford said.

The ferry was built for operator Buquebus and is Incat’s ninth vessel for the firm. It was originally planned as an LNG ferry called China Zorrilla, but the switch to electricity makes the vessel environmentally friendly and cost-effective.

The permanent route of Corps 096 will pass through the mouth of the Rio de la Plata, connecting Buenos Aires in Argentina and Colonia del Sacramento in Uruguay. The tests are the first stage of preparation before being sent to South America, after which the vessel will be completely ready for regular operation.