electra is a fully electric hydrofoil ferry with a cruise speed of 40 knots

ELECTRA USES HYDROFOIL TECH TO GO FASTER FOR LONGER

california-based startup boundary layer technologies has launched an electric hydrofoil ferry concept that promises twice the speed and range of existing electric ferries. called ‘electra’, the boat cruises at a speed of 40 knots and has a range of up to 100 nautical miles thanks to a podded propulsion system at the back and two lifting foils that reduce drag in the water.

ed kearney, CEO of boundary layer technologies, says,‘hydrofoil technology is the key to enabling electrification of passenger ferries. by reducing the drag of the vessel by a factor of two, the powering requirements are also halved, which increases the speed and range of what an electric ferry can do. this opens the door to electrification of the majority of ferry routes across the world.’

images courtesy of boundary layer technologies

the batteries that power electra have a capacity of 9000kWH and can be fully charged in less than three hours (based on a 2400kW charging system). boundary layer technologies says the battery-powered system significantly reduces cabin noise by up to 20db compared to conventional ferries. the 150 passenger ferry also promises a smooth ride even in choppy water.

not only better for the environment, electra’s electric system is lighter on the pocket too. the marine tech company estimates that the electra ferry offers reductions in operating expenses of up to 35% compared to fossil fuel burning fast ferry alternatives.

two lifting foils reduce drag in the water

‘we think electra is an exciting development of ferry technology and shows promise for decarbonizing ferry operations and adding to the customer’s experience’ says patrick murphy, president of blue & gold fleet, the contract operator of san francisco’s 15 high speed ferries.

boundary layer technologies has already developed the hydrofoil and control systems required for electra, and plans to have the first vessels in operation by the first quarter of 2024 in regions such as the united states, scandinavia, and the mediterranean.

electra is a greener and faster ferry alternative