PVA member ABB has been selected to supply a complete package of power, propulsion, and control technology for four new double-ended passenger and car ferries operated by British Columbia Ferry Services (BC Ferries). The order was booked in the fourth quarter of 2025 for the hybrid-electric ferries, which will replace four end-of-life vessels.
Scheduled for delivery beginning in 2029, the vessels will be equipped with ABB’s gearless, steerable Azipod® electric propulsion. The system offers proven reliability thanks to significantly fewer moving parts than mechanical thrusters, while the special propeller design helps reduce underwater radiated noise (URN). This helps safeguard at-risk species, such as the Southern Resident killer whale, and preserve the biologically rich marine ecosystems.
ABB’s Onboard DC Grid™ power distribution system will serve as the backbone for efficient energy flow, minimizing conversion losses and enabling higher overall system efficiency and lower emissions than comparable propulsion arrangements.
Each ferry will be equipped to accommodate up to 70 megawatt-hours (MWh) of battery energy storage. This enables efficient hybrid operations today and supports a future shift to fully electric, zero-emission service. The hybrid configuration uses biofuel or renewable diesel and continuously balances energy between generators and batteries. Each vessel can also connect to a high-capacity shore charging system rated above 60 megawatts (MW) for full electric operation. This system is more than 100 times more powerful than the fastest public electric vehicle charging stations in North America, which typically deliver up to 500 kilowatts (kW) per plug. This high-capacity charging supports fast turnaround in port and enables the transition to zero-emission operations.
ABB’s digital solutions will give crews an overview of ship operations and support safe, efficient journeys. These digital technologies are intended to help the operator deliver an improved travel experience for passengers while reducing environmental impact.