Fleetzero and Glosten collaborate on long-range hybrid-electric vessel

Fleetzero, a Houston-based developer of modular propulsion systems for hybrid and electric maritime vessels, has partnered with naval architecture and marine engineering firm Glosten to design what is expected to be the world’s longest-range hybrid-electric vessel.
The project builds on the companies’ previous collaboration to retrofit a Lightering Support Vessel owned by AET. That vessel is being fitted with a plug-in hybrid-electric propulsion system designed to enable primarily battery-powered operations once completed.
Fleetzero CEO Steven Henderson said: “This vessel will be a major milestone—not just for us, but for the entire industry. Partnering with Glosten allows us to showcase how our propulsion technology can enable economical, cleaner, and more efficient operations, while pushing the boundaries of what’s possible in shipping.”
Design work for the new vessel has already begun. The partners expect to enter the detailed engineering phase in the coming months, with construction scheduled to start in mid-2026. Once completed, the vessel is anticipated to serve as a benchmark for long-range hybrid-electric propulsion in the maritime sector.
Glosten CEO and president Morgan Fanber said: “We’re excited to support Fleetzero in transforming this vessel. It’s a bold move toward the next generation of marine technology, and exactly the kind of advancement we’re proud to support.”
In addition to its work on modular hybrid propulsion and autonomous navigation technologies, Fleetzero applies modular hull construction for commercial vessels. Glosten provides naval architecture and engineering services across multiple vessel categories, including research ships, tugs, and ferries.