‘Birth of first unicorn’: World’s largest battery-electric ship launched by Incat in Hobart

The largest battery-electric ship in the world has officially been unveiled by Tasmanian shipbuilder Incat, with the landmark event being described as “the birth of the first unicorn”.

Launch of Incat electric ferry China Zorrilla destined for South America. Picture: Nikki Davis-Jones

The world’s largest electric vehicle – a new Incat ship built for a South American buyer – has been launched on the River Derwent.

The imposing 130m-long China Zorrilla moved slowly and silently from the big shed at Derwent Park to a dockside berth around noon on Friday, watched by a large crowd including the state governor, the new owners, state and federal politicians, business leaders, diplomats, local dignitaries and the Incat workers who did all the hard work.

Incat hull 096 was originally destined to be a gas-powered vessel but has instead become the largest battery-electric ship ever constructed.

Drone image of all-electric Incat ferry China Zorrilla destined for South America. Picture: Incat

“We’re not just building a ship - we’re building the future,” said Incat CEO Stephen Casey.

Company founder and chairman Bob Clifford said the vessel represented a $250m contribution to Tasmania’s exports and expressed this certainly that it was the first of many such vessels the company would produce,

“This is a historic day — not just for Incat, but for the future of maritime transport,” he said. “We’ve been building world-leading vessels here in Tasmania for more than four decades, and Hull 096 is the most ambitious, most complex, and most important project we’ve ever delivered. This ship changes the game.”

China Zorrilla is the ninth vessel Incat has built for South American operator Buquebus and has been described as a major milestone in sustainable maritime transport.

The new Incat electric ferry under construction. Picture: Nikki Davis-Jones

The ship is equipped with over 250 tonnes of batteries boasting more than 40 megawatt-hours of installed capacity — more than four times the size of the previous record-holder.

It will carry 2100 passengers and 225 cars on short haul journeys across the River Plate between Argentina and Uruguay.

Incat strategic adviser Peter Gutwein told those present at the launch that seeing such a milestone in zero-emissions transport was like being present at “the birth of the first unicorn” — although unlike the unicorn there would be many more to come.

Premier Jeremy Rockliff hailed the ship’s launch saying: “there has not been a time when I have been more proud to be a Tasmanian”.

Hundreds gathered at the Incat shipyard in Hobart today to witness a defining moment in global shipbuilding, as Incat Hull 096 – the world’s largest battery-electric ship – was officially launched. Picture: Nikki Davis-Jones

“Through hard work, determination and ingenuity, Incat has built a globally significant battery-electric ship from their yard in Tasmania.

“Incat epitomises what it means to be Tasmanian as they quietly pursue the extraordinary, strengthen Tasmania’s brand on the global stage, and continue to support Tasmanian jobs and our economy.

“Tasmania has long been a leader in maritime innovation, and Incat’s latest achievement is a testament to our state’s world-class shipbuilding capabilities and proud seafaring heritage.”

Work take place to complete the vessel’s interior, including a 2,300 square metre retail deck — the largest shopping space on any ferry in the world.

Robert Clifford, founder and chairman of Incat, alongside Premier Jeremy Rockliff at the launch of Incat’s new electric ferry China Zorrilla, which is destined for South America. Picture: Nikki Davis-Jones

Final fit-out, battery installation, and energy system integration will take place ahead of sea trials later this year on the River Derwent.

Buquebus President Juan Carlos Lopez Mena said Friday was great day.

“For me, it’s a true source of pride to see Buquebus’ vision come to life,” he said.

“When we were evaluating this new vessel, Robert Clifford told me, ‘The next ship I deliver to you will be 100 per cent electric.’

“I replied, ‘Then the next one must be the one we’re commissioning today ’ And with great courage, he said, ‘Together, we’re going to make history.’

“It’s a true milestone achieved between private companies, driven by our commitment to sustainability and our ongoing pursuit of service excellence.”

The vessel was made possible through a $60 million low-interest commercial loan provided through the Tasmanian Development Board.