ZF Marine transmissions support electric ferry's 90km World-record voyage

This summer the fully electric vessel Ellen set a world record for the longest crossing (50 NMs / 90 KMs), carrying both cargo and passengers, on a single battery charge. Powered by a Danfoss 4.3MWh battery power and drivelines and drive motors, the ferry is also equipped with two ZF W7640 NC marine transmissions. The reduction gears, without shift clutch, drive the fixed propellers.

The electric motors reverse to change the rotation direction of the propeller, and thus the direction of the ferry. Submission of the record to the Guinness World Records is planned.

“With a complete driveline from a single source, ZF supports companies in reducing emissions, fuel consumption and costs,” said ZF Marine’s Wolfram Frei, sales manager, commercial and fast craft. “In addition to a broad portfolio of hybrid transmissions and transmissions for electric drives, ZF can supply electric and hybrid-capable thrusters, electric motors, power electronics and drive levers.”

This article was originally published on Marine & Industrial Report newspaper Vol 44  No.5  Issue last October 31, 2022.