22 DECEMBER 2018 • FOGHORN FOGHORNFOCUS: SECURITY/VESSEL REVIEW Repowering these older ferries with the latest near-zero emissions clean diesel engines can reduce roughly the same emissions as replacing just over 90 older heavy-duty trucks with new technologies. Clean diesel engines that power ferries can have an enormous beneficial impact on the communi- ties where they serve and help reduce emissions for passengers. Replacing older engines that power a single ferry with a new clean diesel model works out to the same emission reductions as replacing almost 100 older trucks, according to new research commis- sioned by the Diesel Technology Forum and the Environmental Defense Fund. Across the U.S., urban populations are expanding and often ferries are an innovative option for transit districts. This is certainly true of the Bay Area in northern California that has seen ferry ridership expand 25 percent in just two year sparking demand for newly man- ufactured vessels. Newly manufac- tured ferries are also entering service in New York City linking outer boroughs and other suburban locations with lower Manhattan. These new ferries are powered by the latest clean diesel engines that meet U.S. EPA’s near-zero emission “Tier 4” standards. While diesel technology is the dominant choice for ferry operators, there are other powertrains in use in U.S. waters. The Badger, in operation between Michigan and Wisconsin, is actually powered by coal, while Hatton Ferry Service in Virginia, operates the only manually powered car ferry in the U.S. n This article is reprinted with permission from the Diesel Technology Forum. It first appeared on June 25, 2018 on Policy Insider, an online newsletter published by the Diesel Technology Forum. Designed for Productivity On Time Solutions Re-powered with twin 6-cylinder Volvo Penta D13MH 400-HP keel engines, Maid of the Mist sightseeing vessels are proving to be better performing, more responsive and more efficient than ever before, according to their captains. Learn more at volvopenta.us/marinecommercial About the Author Ezra Finkin is the Policy Director at the Diesel Technology Forum, which is based in Frederick, MD. The Diesel Technology Forum is a non-profit organization dedicated to raising awareness about the importance of diesel engines, fuel and technology. He can be reached at efinkin@dieselforum.org.