Innovation Quay to fuel efficient ferries
The NRMA’s Manly Fast Ferry has today revealed the trial results of its Australian-designed and manufactured hull-cleaning robots, which led to a 13 per cent fuel reduction and helped reduce diesel pollution on Sydney Harbour.
The NRMA has partnered with Hullbot to improve fuel efficiency and cut emissions across its Sydney based fleet. The AI-powered robots perform critical cleaning duties on the hull exterior that eliminate the need for antifouling paints and replace inefficient, often hazardous manual cleaning.
Trials with NRMA’s Manly Fast Ferry fleet have demonstrated significant fuel savings of up to 13% on vessels with hard coatings.
The NRMA Group is committed to reducing its operational emissions by 30 per cent by 2030 and to achieve net zero by 2050. That’s why the NRMA is undertaking emission reduction programs such as decarbonising its fleet and the roll-out of its national electric vehicle Charging Network.
This collaboration showcases an Australian-backed company leveraging home-grown, locally designed and manufactured technology to tackle not only environmental but also financial challenges in the maritime industry.
Biofouling, the accumulation of marine growth on ship hulls, increases drag, leading to higher fuel consumption, greater emissions, and the spread of invasive species.
NRMA Chief Operating Officer Marine Nigel Ellsmore said the trial of the Hullbot robots had delivered significant outcomes by reducing fuel consumption and diesel pollution on the Harbour.
"We’ve seen first-hand how Hullbot delivers real results for our fleet - these robots have seamlessly integrated into the Manly Fast Ferry’s daily operations allowing us to cut fuel consumption and lower our carbon emissions,” Mr Ellsmore said.
“By reducing our fuel consumption it is helping our bottom line, removing diesel pollution from Sydney’s beautiful harbour and helping NRMA meet its carbon emission targets.”
Hullbot Chief Executive Officer Tom Loefler said the AI-powered technology was designed to make cleaning hulls safer, more efficient and environmentally sound.
“Our technology enables fleet operators to drastically cut fuel use and emissions while eliminating antifouling practices and we are pleased to have partnered with one of Australia’s most trusted brands, the NRMA-owned Manly Fast Ferry,” Mr Loefler said.
