Erik Thun introduces its latest hybrid dry cargo vessel

Erik Thun Group has unveiled its new hybrid dry cargo vessels, a next-generation series of Lake Vanern Max, to be built at Shipyard Ferus Smit in the Netherlands.

The Lake Vanern Max will be equipped with a battery pack, enabling it to use a combination of electricity and combustion for propulsion. The battery system will be used for peak shaving and power smoothening, to reduce the vessel’s reliance on auxiliary engines for electricity generation. This will also enable the vessel to stay at anchor without using auxiliary engines.

The vessel will use a shore connection to ensure silent operations and no emissions when in port. Its main propulsion system consists of a large-diameter propeller that operates within a nozzle. This is claimed to result in increased thrust – particularly at lower speeds ­– leading to reduced power demand when navigating harsh seas. As a result, the installed main engine power can be greatly reduced while maintaining performance levels. The entire system is fully automatic, resulting in the optimal load point being selected and enhancing propeller efficiency while reducing the vessel’s fuel consumption.

Erik Thun has also introduced a range of measures to reduce electrical consumption on board the vessel, such as using excess energy with cooling water heat exchangers in the main and auxiliary engines.

“We are making a substantial investment to support our customers’ transportation needs and thereby strengthening our position even further on the short-sea market and on the Lake Vanern traffic,” said Jens Bäckström, senior charterer at Erik Thun.

“We are proud to lead the way in maritime innovation by introducing the Lake Vanern Max, a vessel that sets a new standard in efficiency, performance and sustainability,” commented Henrik Källsson, deputy managing director at Erik Thun Group. “These vessels exemplify our unwavering commitment to sustainable shipping and pave the way for a greener and more prosperous future.”

The vessels will be delivered from September 2024 onward.

For more on shipyards and shipbuilding, please click here.