Saft has supplied the batteries to power two new zero-emission electric boats launched by Alternatives Energies at La Rochelle.
Based in La Rochelle, France, Alternatives Energies develops and produces passenger transport boats powered by alternative energies. The two new electric boats are intended for the innovative urban transport system in the port of La Rochelle, where they will provide a shuttle service connecting the Old Port with the harbour of Les Minimes.
Saft batteries have already been used in the field of electric boats. One set has been operating in La Rochelle since 1998. Another has been in service in Paris since 2007 on the Seine. The two new electric boats are in the catamaran style. With an operating speed of 6 knots (or 12 kilometres/hour), 100 km autonomy and a maximum speed of 9.5 knots, they can sail in normal shipping conditions (current and waves). Each boat weighs 18 tons in total to provide a maximum carrying capacity of 75 persons.
The nickel-cadmium batteries supplied by Saft are made up of three systems: two at 480 V are dedicated to propulsion and one 24 V service battery feeds the equipment on board. Saft batteries achieve the best compromise between weight, power capacity, lifespan and recharge speed. They also offer the world of urban maritime transport the advantages of an application with high environmental benefits.
Philippe Pallu de la Barrière, Director of CRAIN (Research Centre for Nautical Architecture and Industry) and Vice President of Alternatives Energies, said: "We are very pleased we chose Saft batteries with the EVE management system to power our electric boats. This solution, which was developed for maritime passenger transport, is very attractive compared to boats powered by internal combustion engines. Clean and totally free of pollution, electric boats help us to come a little closer to our target of zero greenhouse gas emissions in French ports."
Clean and entirely without pollution, electric boats reduce odour emissions dramatically and completely cut greenhouse gas emissions (CO2) in ports. They also represent progress in terms of passenger comfort in the world of urban transport, as they greatly reduce noise and vibrations.
Alternatives Energies are currently working in collaboration with shipping organisations or ship owners on other development projects which aim to equip even more municipal authorities with electric boats.