Electric cars are now commonplace on our roads, but the technology is yet to become mainstream on open water. However, this is about to change as British company, Artemis Technologies, has unveiled the design of a new electric ferry to be used in a Belfast-to-Bangor pilot scheme.

Operated by Condor Ferries and carrying up to 150 passengers, the boat will take just 25 minutes from port to port. The most impressive part of the design is the sense of flying above the water, thanks to the electric propulsion system, but most importantly, it reduces fuel costs by up to 85 percent compared with conventional high-speed diesel ferries.

Another advantage is leaving a calm sea in its wake, allowing it to operate at high-speed close-to-shore, which is how the journey time is significantly reduced compared to conventional ferries.

The company behind the innovation is a spin-off from the Artemis Racing team that competed in the America's Cup.

"The zero-emission ferry, that will be seen departing Belfast in 2024, aptly named 'Zero', will be the first we build at our manufacturing hub in the city, but it is only the start,” says Artemis CEO, Dr Iain Percy. 

While secretary of state for Northern Ireland, Chris Heaton-Harris added; “My congratulations to Artemis Technologies and Belfast Maritime Consortium on unveiling the plans for this exciting zero emissions vessel.

“The development of such world-leading technology will ensure that Belfast remains at the forefront of maritime innovation, while providing a boost to the local green economy.”

To find out more, visit: www.artemistechnologies.co.uk