Singapore’s first all-electric hydrofoil vessel launched

November 20, 2024, by Fatima Bahtić

Singapore-based green technology solutions provider Yinson GreenTech (YGT) has launched the region’s first fully electric hydrofoil vessel, the Hydroglyder.

As disclosed, the Hydroglyder was developed through a collaboration between Lift Ocean and Zeabuz, and designed to offer “a more efficient and sustainable alternative to traditional fossil-fuel-powered boats” for crew transfer and passenger transport.

The launch of Hydroglyder

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The vessel has a maximum cruising speed of 25 knots and can carry up to 12 passengers. By using a hydrofoil system, the ship lifts its hull above the water, to reduce drag and improve energy efficiency.

According to Yinson GreenTech, the hydrofoil design enables the Hydroglyder to achieve up to 80% lower energy consumption than conventional vessels. This reduction in energy usage also translates to up to 90% lower operational costs.

As Singapore’s first fully electric hydrofoil vessel, the Hydroglyder supports the Maritime and Port Authority of Singapore’s plans for all new harbor craft operating in the Port of Singapore to be fully electric, be capable of using B100 biofuel, or be compatible with net-zero fuels from 2030.

“At Yinson GreenTech, we believe the future of maritime transport lies at the convergence of electrification and digitalisation,” stated Eirik Barclay, Chief Executive Officer of Yinson GreenTech.

“The Hydroglyder embodies our vision for a sustainable future in maritime transport,” said Jan-Viggo Johansen, Managing Director of marinEV.

“Its energy-efficient design and zero-emission technology offer a practical, environmentally friendly solution to support businesses committed to greener marine operations – and, of course, provide a more comfortable voyage for our seafarers.”

As part of Yinson GreenTech’s portfolio of electric and autonomous vessels across land and sea, the company also introduced Singapore’s first fully electric cargo ship, the Hydromover. The unit was launched in November last year, while the commercial trials kicked off this September.

Hydromover is a lightweight, 18.5-meter vessel equipped with swappable batteries, allowing it to transport up to 25 tons of cargo. Being all-electric, the ship has zero emissions and targets to achieve up to 50% operational cost savings due to improved energy efficiency and lower maintenance costs.

Singapore’s shipping player Eastern Pacific Shipping (EPS) and YGT completed the first cargo and crew deliveries with the Hydromover in June this year.