Construction of world’s largest plug-in hybrid passenger ship commences

Construction on the world’s largest plug-in hybrid ship, Color Hybrid, has officially commenced. Representatives from operator Color Line and shipbuilder Ulstein Verft marked the occasion as the ship’s hull was placed in Ulstein’s dock hall earlier this month. Designed by Fosen Yard, Color Hybrid will be propelled by Rolls-Royce Bergen diesel engines and a Siemens battery solution. It will accommodate 2,000 passengers and 500 cars. Handover of the new-build vessel to Color Line is scheduled for next summer, after which it will service Norway’s Sandefjord-Strömstad route. The ship will switch from diesel fuel to battery power upon reaching the fjord outside Sandefjord. It will emit no noise and zero emissions for the duration of its time in the protected waterway. When moored in Sandefjord, the vessel will be charged by a shore connection. According to Ulstein Verft, about 100 suppliers/subcontractors – or 70% – contracted to the project are local. “When Color Line chose Ulstein Verft for the construction of Color Hybrid, the ripple effect for subcontractors and cooperative partners, both regionally and nationally, was very high,” said Gunvor Ulstein, CEO, Ulstein. “At Ulstein Verft alone, approximately 400-500 people will be involved in this project.” Color Line chief executive Trond Kleivdal added, “The determination and the ability to adjust course has been one of the key drivers in the development of the company. In about half a year, this magnificent hull will be a flagship for the natural environment and for innovation for the Norwegian maritime industry.”