ABB to Supply Power and Propulsion Systems for BC Ferries’ New Hybrid-Electric Fleet

ABB has secured an order to deliver an integrated package of power, propulsion, and control technologies for four new double-ended passenger and vehicle ferries being built for British Columbia Ferry Services (BC Ferries). The order was booked in the fourth quarter of 2025. Financial terms were not disclosed.

The hybrid-electric ferries are part of BC Ferries’ New Major Vessels programme, which aims to replace four vessels nearing the end of their operational life and to increase capacity and reliability on key routes in and around the Strait of Georgia. BC Ferries operates year-round services on 25 routes serving 47 terminals, transporting approximately 9.7 million vehicles and 22.7 million passengers annually.

Delivery schedule and shipyard

The vessels are scheduled for delivery from 2029 onwards and will be constructed at China Merchants Industry Weihai (CMI Weihai) shipyard in China.

Propulsion, power, and energy storage

Each ferry will be equipped with ABB’s gearless, steerable Azipod® electric propulsion system. The design features fewer moving parts than conventional mechanical propulsion systems and incorporates a propeller geometry intended to reduce underwater radiated noise, a consideration in environmentally sensitive operating areas.

Power distribution will be based on ABB’s Onboard DC Grid™ system, designed to reduce conversion losses and improve overall energy efficiency compared with traditional alternating current-based arrangements.

The ferries will also be fitted with battery energy storage systems with a capacity of up to 70 megawatt-hours (MWh) per vessel. This configuration supports hybrid operations using biofuel or renewable diesel and allows for a future transition to fully electric operation. Each vessel will be capable of connecting to high-capacity shore charging infrastructure rated above 60 megawatts (MW), enabling full-electric operation and rapid turnaround times in port.

Digital systems and operations

ABB will also supply digital solutions intended to provide crews with real-time visibility of vessel operations. These systems are designed to support operational efficiency, safety, and energy management while contributing to reduced environmental impact.

Nicolas Jimenez, President and CEO of BC Ferries, said:

“BC Ferries’ New Major Vessels represent the largest capital investment in our history and are essential to renewing our fleet, increasing capacity on our busiest routes, and strengthening system resilience. Their design reflects what our customers value most: comfort, accessibility and environmental stewardship. With diesel-battery hybrid technology that can operate on bio and renewable diesel today and transition to full electrification as infrastructure evolves, these ships are a critical part of building a cleaner, quieter, and more reliable ferry system for the future.”

Rune Braastad, President of ABB’s Marine & Ports division, said:

“We proudly support BC Ferries’ goals to reduce greenhouse gas emissions from their operations, striving to meet British Columbia’s 2030 greenhouse gas emissions reduction target for the transportation sector by at least 27 percent by 2030, from 2008 levels, in support of a cleaner future for British Columbia, and its ambitions to transition to all-electric operation. ABB’s deep roots in Canada make it possible to support generational infrastructure projects like the New Major Vessels.”