51
APRIL 2026
D
elaware River and Bay Au-
thority (DRBA) selected an 
integrated 
hybrid-electric 
propulsion system from ABB the new 
vessel in the works for the operator.  
Senesco Marine contracted ABB to 
deliver full propulsion and automa-
tion systems for the 75-car passenger 
and vehicle ferry, which will replace 
the 45-year-old Cape Henlopen. Con-
struction is scheduled to start later 
this year.
ABB’s scope of supply includes the 
high redundancy propulsion system 
comprising flexible Onboard DC 
Grid™ power platform, and PEMS™ 
power and energy management sys-
tem, as well as engineering, accep-
tance testing, training and commis-
sioning support.
Expected to improve efficiency, re-
liability, and customer experience, 
the new ferry is due to be delivered 
in 2029 as part of DRBA’s fleet 
modernization initiative. Unlocking 
initial fuel savings of around 35 per-
cent, as well as lower operating and 
maintenance costs compared to the 
existing fleet.
Developed by Elliott Bay Design 
Group and classed by American Bu-
reau of Shipping to meet U.S. Coast 
Guard requirements, its arrival will 
signal a major step forward in DRBA’s 
strategy to cut regional emissions. 
With the first phase of the Cape 
May-Lewes Ferry project leveraging 
the high redundancy of hybrid-elec-
tric propulsion systems, the subse-
quent upgrade will secure zero-emis-
sion operations and port stays.
MEMBER NEWS
ABB Will Supply a Hybrid-Electric Propulsion 
System for New DRBA Ferry

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