BC Ferries to welcome 2 brand new hybrid-electric ships tomorrow

As promised, BC Ferries is welcoming their first two hybrid-electric ferries tomorrow morning.

The Island Class are battery equipped ships designed for future full electric operation.

#BCFNews
The first two Island Class ferries are expected to arrive in BC tomorrow. Their arrival marks a major milestone in our plan to progressively lower emissions across our fleet as the vessels are fitted with hybrid-electric technology ⚡️🔋🔋⚡️: https://t.co/t4f3xsRWgO^mj pic.twitter.com/HigI4kwiGP

— BC Ferries (@BCFerries) January 17, 2020

The ships are fitted with hybrid technology that bridges the gap until shore charging infrastructure and funding becomes available in B.C.

From the exterior details to the engines, the design of the new vessels reduces underwater radiated noise, lowers emissions and improves customer service.

“It’s an exciting day for BC Ferries and coastal B.C. communities as we welcome these ships to their new home,” says Mark Collins, BC Ferries’ President and CEO.

“The anticipated arrival of these battery hybrid-electric ferries marks a major milestone in our plan to progressively lower emissions across our fleet and be a leader in transitioning to a lower carbon future.”

The new ships departed from Constanta, Romania on Nov. 20, 2019, on a semi-submersible transport vessel. The ship will be held at the Breakwater District at Ogden Point while preparations are made to deliver them to Victoria.

BC Ferries says they will be putting the ships into service on the Powell River –Texada Island and Port McNeill – Alert Bay – Sointula routes by mid-2020.

Another four Island Class vessels are slated to go into service in 2022.