Thanks to its innovative propulsion system, the 13-meter-long vessel, which can accommodate 8 passengers, can operate both in traditional propulsion mode (2x 100kW diesel engines) and in all-electric mode (2x 30 kW electric motors), which guarantees quiet and emission-free operation. The innovation is at the heart of the entire project: namely, the two electric motors are powered by salt batteries and fuel cells. With the novel propulsion system, the vessel can reach a top speed of 11 knots.
"The launch of the BIIM is an important milestone for VULKAN as a hybrid architect on the way to the maritime energy transition," says Matteo Zangrandi, Hybrid Team Project Manager-
The project was realized thanks to the collaboration of a consortium of companies based in Liguria: Duferco Engineering, VULKAN Italia, Names, Costruzioni Navali Tigullio Castagnola, BluEnergy Revolution e I.Mar.s, with the contribution of UNIGE and RINA have contributed their competence and know-how to this project. The consortium's project was preceded by winning a European tender. The BIIM was co-financed by the FONDO EUROPEO DI SVILUPPO REGIONALE 2014-2020 e gestito da FILSE - REGIONE LIGURIA.
“After the official launch on March 31, the vessel will be used as a port utility vessel managed by the Consorzio Golfo dei Poeti and a test platform of the different technologies onboaed,” says Diego Campisi, Sales Manager Pleasure Crafts & Hybrid Application.
We wish the BIIM a good journey! May there always be enough water beneath its keel!