ABB’s role in sustainable transportation

This story first appeared in the March issue of Evtalk – CLICK HERE to download the magazine FREE

Global pressures of climate change, emerging-market economic development and growing urbanisation, demand new and more environmentally sustainable ways to move people and goods.

ABB has become one of the world’s leading enablers of sustainable transportation for all modes, including marine vessels.

As part of the company’s pioneering role in electric transportation, ABB has provided electric systems on board vessels for more than 110 years.

Today, more than 1300 ships employ ABB’s electric system.

Modern ships are being built on the foundation of electricity, which expands their range of viable energy sources beyond traditional fuel to, for instance, batteries and fuel cells.

ABB’s role as a front runner in sustainable transportation is to equip the marine industry with electric, digital and connected solutions that maximise the full potential of vessels and ultimately enable a safe, efficient and sustainable maritime industry.

In 1990, ABB transformed maritime shipping by introducing Azipod propulsion, an electric propulsion system for marine vessels.

The Azipod, which extends below the hull of a ship, can rotate 360 degrees to increase manoeuvrability, efficiency and space available on board.

Due to minimal noise and vibration, Azipod propulsion also improves passenger and crew comfort.

SeaBubbles, an example of e-mobility on water, is a futuristic, zero-emission new design of water taxi, drawing on ABB technology.

The vessel represents a milestone in the development of new forms of transportation that do not impact the environment or place any burden on urban infrastructure.

Envisioned as a water taxi, the craft will be equipped with the ABB Ability Marine Advisory System – Octopus, a software solution that enables ABB to provide real-time data to the SeaBubbles control centre, covering virtually every aspect of the vessels’ operating status.

That’s relevant in New Zealand’s quest to protect its vulnerable marine reserves with high tourist traffic volumes – like the sounds on the west coast of the South Island.

ABB’s role as a world leader in sustainable transportation is more crucial than ever.

it believes in running the world without consuming the Earth – and is using its technological expertise to make this happen.