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All electric vessel launch to change maritime history forever with Incat’s Hull 96

A lot can happen in 70 days. It’ll be round 8 of a new AFL season, we’ll likely know the federal election result and maritime history will be made in Tasmania. Find out how >>

Robert Clifford founder and chairman Incat with Hull 096. Incat counting down to the launch of Hull 096 the world's largest electric ship on May 2nd. Picture: Nikki Davis-Jones
Robert Clifford founder and chairman Incat with Hull 096. Incat counting down to the launch of Hull 096 the world's largest electric ship on May 2nd. Picture: Nikki Davis-Jones

In 70 days Tasmanian’s will be bracing for the winter, it will be round 8 of the new AFL season, we’ll likely know the results of the federal election and maritime history will be made in Tasmania.

Pioneer shipbuilders Incat are counting down the days until the most significant launch in the company’s history.

Incat founder and chair Robert Clifford said the launch of Hull 096, which is the largest battery-electric ship ever constructed, would be a turning point for the maritime industry.

Incat counting down to the launch of Hull 096 the world's largest electric ship on May 2nd. Picture: Nikki Davis-Jones
Incat counting down to the launch of Hull 096 the world's largest electric ship on May 2nd. Picture: Nikki Davis-Jones

“The launch of the world’s largest battery-electric ship is a defining moment, not just for Incat, but for Tasmania, for Australia, and for sustainable transport worldwide,” he said.

Hull 096 carries over 250 tonnes of batteries, quadruple the battery capacity of any existing ship on the planet.

“Hull 096 is not just a milestone for Incat – it’s a game-changer for the global shipping industry, proving that large-scale, low-emission ferry travel is here to stay,” Mr Clifford said.

Duty Free deck under construction. Incat are currently constructing their first electric ferry. Picture: Nikki Davis-Jones
Duty Free deck under construction. Incat are currently constructing their first electric ferry. Picture: Nikki Davis-Jones

At Incat’s Hobart shipyard key equipment, including cutting-edge propulsion and advanced energy storage systems continue to arrive for installation.

The vessel’s fit-out is on schedule and Hull 096 is expected to launch on May 2, 2025.

“We have been building boats for more than 40 years, but this is the most significant launch in Incat’s history by far,” Mr Clifford said.

Hull 096 was commissioned by South American ferry operator Buquebus and will set sail for South America on completion.

Following the launch on May 2 work will continue on Hull 096 including the completion of the interior fit-out and the installation of the battery system.

elise.kaine@news.com.au

Originally published as All electric vessel launch to change maritime history forever with Incat’s Hull 96

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Original URL: https://www.thechronicle.com.au/news/tasmania/all-electric-vessel-launch-to-change-maritime-history-forever-with-incats-hull-96/news-story/1ec22fef528e018b210b793099ef5c33