ABB, the Swiss-based electrification and automation technology leader, has been selected to supply the integrated power, propulsion and control systems for four new hybrid-electric major vessels being built for British Columbia Ferry Services (BC Ferries).
The contract was made in late 2025 and represents a significant milestone in the operator’s fleet renewal and sustainability strategy.
Under BC Ferries’ New Major Vessels program, one of the largest capital fleet investments in the company’s history, four double-ended passenger and vehicle ferries will be constructed at the China Merchants Industry Weihai Shipyard, with first deliveries scheduled beginning in 2029.
These vessels will replace ageing tonnage and are designed to support quieter, cleaner and more efficient service through the Strait of Georgia, a crucial marine corridor between Vancouver Island and the British Columbia Lower Mainland.
ABB’s scope of supply includes a complete electric power, propulsion and control solution tailored to hybrid-electric operation. Central to this package is ABB’s Azipod gearless, steerable electric propulsion system, which integrates thrust and steering in a compact unit with fewer moving parts than conventional thrusters. An Onboard DC Grid power distribution system will serve as the energy backbone, it will reduce conversion losses and optimize power flow throughout the vessel’s electrical architecture.
Each vessel will incorporate up to 70 megawatt-hours (MWh) of battery storage, enabling hybrid operation that balances energy between onboard generators and battery power.
In addition to propulsion hardware, ABB will also deliver advanced digital control and monitoring systems for real-time operational visibility.
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