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Maritime Propulsion

Posted by November 30, 2018

Torqeedo Powers Thailand's First All-Electric Passenger Ferry

Photo courtesy of Torqeedo

Thailand’s first all-electric commuter ferry was recently placed into service by the Bangkok Metropolitan Authority (BMA), powered by Torqeedo. 

Prime Minister Prayut Chan-o-cha celebrated the launch, giving his symbolic approval to the city’s efforts to ease congestion and improve air quality through investments in green transportation. The Prime Minister commuted by skytrain, subway and foot through Bangkok’s crowded streets, before ending his mixed-mode commute with a trip aboard the emission-free passenger ferry.

The 47.5-ft fiberglass vessel was repowered by MariArt Shipyard, replacing the existing 205hp diesel engine with twin Torqeedo Cruise 10 kW electric outboards, each with six Torqeedo lithium battery banks and two fast chargers. The 40-passenger vessel is part of a fleet of ferries operated by BMA’s Enterprise Krungthep Thanakom Company (KT BMA) and operates on a five-kilometer route daily between Hua Lampjong and Thewes Pier.