The first hybrid car ferry in Maine will initially provide service from the ferry terminal in Rockland and follows its newly launched sister ship on the Rockland-Vinalhaven line, Capt. Richard G. Spear, in a testament to the service’s commitment to modernize its fleet.

Senesco Marine is collaborating with BAE Systems, a leader in electric propulsion, to equip the HybriGen Assist system on the vessel using proven components that enhance system efficiency, and reduce emissions and maintenance costs. The parallel hybrid system offers all-electric propulsion capabilities, power regeneration and electric boost for high power performance when needed.

The HybriGen Assist solution includes electric motors, variable-speed generators, a battery-based energy storage system and vessel auxiliary power to create a clean, quiet form of propulsion. The vessel will be equipped with Caterpillar propulsion engines and gensets, Reintjes gearboxes, and a Spear energy storage system, integrated with BAE Systems’ electric motors and power electronics.

Senesco Marine, founded in 1999 and located on Narragansett Bay in Rhode Island, produces an array of vessels. Senesco Marine has successfully built and delivered over two dozen double-hulled fuel and chemical barges. Today, the shipyard has become a leading builder of larger barges and articulated tug-barge (ATB) tugs. Senesco has recently added an aluminum division to the shipyard and is constructing crew transfer vessels for the wind farm industry.

The MSFS, a division of the Maine DOT, serves the island communities of Vinalhaven, North Haven, Islesboro, Swans Island, Frenchboro and Matinicus.

– BAE Systems