Electric Boat’s 5,016 Batteries Power New vessel, Signaling Maritime Industry Shift
Groton, CT – Electric Boat, a subsidiary of General Dynamics, is nearing sea trials for “Hull 096,” a groundbreaking vessel powered by 5,016 lithium-ion batteries, marking a notable step toward wider electrification of the maritime industry. The ship’s launch demonstrates growing momentum in replacing diesel engines with electric alternatives, driven by environmental concerns and potential cost savings.
Globally, the push for electric shipping is gaining traction. Norway is leading the charge with electric ferries, operating a fleet of approximately 80 ships supported by a high-speed charging network largely powered by hydropower. China is pioneering shipping electrification along the Yangtze river, utilizing containerized batteries swapped and recharged at ports. Amsterdam aims to fully electrify its canal fleet by 2025, while U.S. ports in cities like San Diego and Seattle are launching pilot programs for electric ferry charging stations.
Despite this progress, challenges remain. Batteries currently lack the energy density of diesel, making long-haul shipping notably arduous. “The required battery weight and volume would displace too much cargo,” explains an industry expert. Scaling maritime electrification requires advancements in battery technology – specifically higher specific energy cells – alongside widespread multi-megawatt charging infrastructure at major ports, more efficient vessel designs, and potential operational adjustments like reduced speeds or en-route recharging.
However, lifecycle cost analyses indicate potential long-term savings. Studies have shown fuel savings exceeding 60 percent, and electric drivetrains require less maintenance due to fewer moving parts. “Battery-electric ferries often achieve positive life-cycle economics, particularly on short, frequent routes with high fuel savings potential,” says Mehdi Zadeh, a professor of marine electrification at the Norwegian University of Science and Technology. A key consideration is battery lifespan, as replacements may be needed every 5 to 10 years, while vessels are often designed to operate for 20-40+ years.
Hull 096 is designed to gather critical data on battery performance, maintenance, and real-world efficiency, informing future vessel designs and port infrastructure development. Sea trials are scheduled for later this year.