- 130m-long vessel can carry 2,100 passengers and 225 vehicles.
- Powered by 250+ tonnes of batteries; charges in as little as 40 minutes.
- Built in Hobart, it’s Australia’s major maritime export to South America.
Incat, an Australian shipbuilder based in Hobart, has launched the world’s largest battery-electric ship, China Zorrilla, commissioned by South American ferry operator Buquebus.
The ship’s development was backed by a $60 million low-interest loan from the Tasmanian Development Board. With sea trials scheduled by the end of 2025, Incat is already planning to scale production, driven by international demand for zero-emission ships, particularly from Europe.
A Green Giant: Electric Ferry Sets Sail to Transform Maritime Travel
The launch of China Zorrilla marks a turning point in eco-friendly maritime engineering, combining scale with sustainability. The ship is designed for short-sea routes and showcases rapid advancements in battery technology, with an expected range soon to double from 100 to 200 miles.
Constructed in Tasmania, the ship reflects the island’s longstanding maritime legacy and showcases Australia’s innovation in lightweight, electric-powered shipbuilding. Its rapid charge capabilities—potentially as fast as 40 minutes—make it a practical solution for high-frequency routes.
Buquebus, the South American ferry company that commissioned the vessel, aims to connect Argentina and Uruguay while slashing emissions. The vessel honors Uruguayan actress China Zorrilla, adding a cultural layer to its historic journey.
Incat sees a future filled with expansion, eyeing the production of four electric ships a year within five years. With ten new ships already in development, the company hopes to maintain its lead in a fast-growing green shipping market.
China Zorrilla not only sets a global benchmark in electric ferry design but also signals a bold step forward in climate-conscious transportation, with Tasmania at the helm of change.
“This is the biggest moment in that 70-year history.” – Bob Clifford, Incat Founder
