Ferry EV chargers delayed due to fire risk

KiwiRail has paused its project to provide electric vehicle chargers on board its ferries following a lithium-ion battery fire on an overseas ferry.

“The International Maritime Organisation (IMO) is developing guidance on how to control and mitigate the risks of charging electric vehicles on ferries,” Interislander executive general manager Walter Rushbrook says.

This is expected to take one to two years.

“Once that guidance is available, we can consider what facilities and available technology may be suitable.

“This current situation is unfortunate but safety has to be our main priority. Fire is regarded as one of the greatest risks on a vessel.”

Rushbrook says KiwiRail is in the planning process to replace the current ships and terminals with a view to have the lowest practicable environmental impacts, including emissions.

“The programme will look to incorporate the most up-to-date allowances for technology such as electric vehicles and provide future proofing so that the assets remain suitable for many years to come,” he says.

“We have engaged naval architects, systems engineering specialists and other specialist advisors to assist with the specification and concept design of the ferries and related infrastructure.

“The target timeframe is for the first new ship to arrive in New Zealand in the 2024 calendar year.”