austal trimaran ferry

Passenger Express

Auto Express

A sustainable maritime transport solution for everyone..

Forward thinking urban communities throughout the world are looking for mass transport solutions that are both economically and environmentally sustainable, for everyone. Today’s ferry services need to be faster, quieter, more efficient, while being less expensive to operate and better for the environment. Austal has developed the VOLTA series of electric-powered high-speed ferries to spark a change in thinking, challenge convention and exceed the expectations of communities, operators and passengers alike.

Austal’s VOLTA series is a complete, customisable electric-powered transport solution that has been designed from the hull up to offer a smarter, affordable alternative for ferry operators. Ultimately comprising multiple vessel designs, Austal’s VOLTA series combines state-of-the-art electric drive and lithium ion battery technology with lightweight, low-resistance, optimised hull forms to produce high-speed ferries like no other. On-shore, Austal’s VOLTA series are kept running at peak efficiency by the latest in charging infrastructure and in-service support.

Pursuing the ultimate in form and function, Austal’s VOLTA series offers a true sustainable solution for everyone: »  Our planet – Zero emissions*, reduced noise and low wave wash. »  Our community – Cleaner, more reliable, safer and quieter. »  Your company – Reduced energy consumption, maintenance costs and total cost of ownership. *subject to source of energy

As the world’s largest aluminium shipbuilder, Austal has earned a reputation built on innovative hull design, ‘smart’ maritime technology, modular manufacturing techniques and value-adding in-service support. From safe, modern and efficient shipyards located in Australia, USA, The Philippines and Vietnam, Austal offers a growing portfolio of proven monohull, catamaran and trimaran vessel designs - ideal for commercial passenger and vehicle-passenger ferry services - with specifications optimised to match your vessel’s operating profile and environment.

Austal has also developed value adding technologies such as MARINELINK and MOTION CONTROL that have transformed commercial ferry operations and helped set industry benchmarks for vessel and systems performance management, seakeeping and onboard experience for both passengers and crew. Not just a ship designer and builder, Austal is a true technology partner in your commercial maritime operations, with the capability to also provide ongoing service and support, wherever your fleet is in operation.

Going well beyond a traditional powerplant replacement, Austal’s VOLTA series introduces an all new, optimised hull form specifically designed for the electric drive and lithium ion battery technology that provides operators with a genuine advantage in a changing world and a competitive market environment. For detailed information on the Volta Advantage please download the Volta brochure.

The VOLTA Advantage is generated by a smarter hull design that offers superior seakeeping and passenger comfort, while delivering greater efficiency from less power - and zero emissions. The VOLTA Advantage also includes shore- based charging infrastructure and in-service support that minimises turnaround times and keeps your fleet moving.

CFD (computational fluid dynamics) is a cutting-edge flow simulation tool to accurately predict the powering requirements of a vessel. Austal achieves hull form optimisation using CFD, to maximise efficiency through the water and minimising environmental impact (such as wave wash). Increasing transport efficiency = reduced powering requirements = fewer batteries required = lower capex and operating costs.

The Passenger Express 46 V is an IACS-approved, electric passenger ferry, ideal for any inland waterway service operating within a high population, urban environment. Featuring a striking design with capacity for between 400 and 450 passengers, the catamaran boasts a natural, light filled interior enabled by large, panoramic side windows and generous skylights located along the entire length of the vessel.

Distinctive, double automatic sliding doors provide direct access to the passenger deck for quick loading and unloading of passengers; ensuring turnaround times ‘alongside’ never exceed your fast battery charging requirements.

An environmentally friendly, zero emission* electric high-speed ferry that delivers a superior passenger experience, greater efficiency and lower operating costs. ‍ *subject to source of energy

Introducing the Austal VOLTA Auto Express catamaran. An all-electric-powered fast ferry with the capability and affordability to add value to your fleet. Austal has optimised our proven vehicle passenger ferry designs for both weight and efficiency, to achieve the ideal solution for operators on the pathway to net zero emissions. Powerful new battery technologies continue to emerge that compliment Austal’s lightweight and efficient hull forms; allowing all-electric powerplants to be fitted that deliver fast-ferry performance and capability. With carrying capacity to suit your requirements, confidently transport multiple decks of large commercial vehicles, trucks and cars, at speed on electric power.

Drawing upon over 30 years experience in fast ferry designand construction, Austal can customise an all-electric, VOLTA solution with flexibility in layouts for large vehicle passenger ferries, in catamaran (or trimaran) hulls, up to 130 metres. ‍ Austal offers a complete turn-key solution to help operators navigate any regulatory environment and develop cost effective shore-based infrastructure that re-charges your ferries quickly, minimising turn around times and seamlessly integrating to your existing schedules. ‍

Partnering with the world’s leading electric charging infrastructure and storage providers, Austal can project manage bespoke installations to suit your new ferries and port infrastructure. Start your journey to net zero emissions with Austal’s VOLTA Auto Express range of all-electric fast ferries. Ready to join your fleet, now. ‍