Erik Thun Group has revealed its cutting-edge hybrid dry cargo vessels, a revolutionary series named Lake Vanern Max, slated for construction at the Shipyard Ferus Smit in the Netherlands.
The Lake Vanern Max series is set to incorporate a battery pack, revolutionizing propulsion by seamlessly combining electricity and combustion. This advanced battery system will serve to manage peak energy requirements and ensure smoother power distribution, effectively reducing the vessel’s dependence on auxiliary engines for electricity generation. A noteworthy benefit is the vessel’s ability to remain anchored without resorting to auxiliary engines.
Leveraging a shore connection, the vessel will offer silent operations and zero emissions while docked in port. The core propulsion system features a sizeable propeller operating within a nozzle, optimizing thrust, particularly at lower speeds, and subsequently diminishing power demand when navigating challenging waters. This design allows for a significant reduction in the main engine’s installed power while maintaining performance standards. The entire system is automated, ensuring the selection of the most efficient load point to enhance propeller efficiency and reduce fuel consumption.
Erik Thun Group has implemented a range of strategies to curtail onboard electrical consumption, including utilizing surplus energy through cooling water heat exchangers integrated into both the main and auxiliary engines.
Jens Bäckström, Senior Charterer at Erik Thun, underscored the significance of this investment, stating, “We are making a substantial investment to support our customers’ transportation needs and thereby strengthening our position even further on the short-sea market and on the Lake Vanern traffic.”
Henrik Källsson, Deputy Managing Director at Erik Thun Group, emphasized the pioneering nature of this vessel launch, remarking, “We are proud to lead the way in maritime innovation by introducing the Lake Vanern Max, a vessel that sets a new standard in efficiency, performance and sustainability. These vessels exemplify our unwavering commitment to sustainable shipping and pave the way for a greener and more prosperous future.”
Commencing from September 2024, these vessels are poised to mark a paradigm shift in the maritime landscape, championing eco-friendly practices, heightened efficiency, and sustainable performance.