Video: Azipod electric propulsion can save $1.7m

ABB Azipod electric propulsion for ferries could save up to $1.7 million in annual fuel costs per vessel, says a study by marine consultancy Deltamarine.

Lower fuel consumption means the Azipod-powered ferry would reduce CO2 emissions by about 10,000 tonnes a year, equivalent to the amount of carbon dioxide emitted by about 2200 cars annually.

“We are continuously strengthening our portfolio of electric, digital and connected solutions that maximise the potential of ships and ultimately enable more sustainable operations,” says ABB Industrial Automation business president Peter Terwiesch.

ABB is launching a new series of mid-power range Azipod propulsion systems in June.

“With the launch of the mid-power range Azipod propulsion, we will be able to empower more shipowners to improve the performance of their vessels while lowering environmental impact.”

When the electric drive motor is in a submerged pod outside the ship hull, the Azipod propulsion system can rotate 360 degrees to increase manoeuvrability and operating efficiency and is proven to cut fuel consumption by up to 20% compared to traditional shaftline propulsion systems.

Azipod propulsion systems have accumulated more than 15 million running hours, saving over 700,000 tonnes of fuel in the passenger cruise segment alone.