AYK Energy, a specialist in marine battery systems, has been awarded a contract to supply the energy solutions for what is described as the world's first fully electric, intercontinental high-speed ferries. These new zero-emission catamarans will operate between Tarifa, Spain, and Tangier, Morocco, crossing the Strait of Gibraltar and connecting Europe and Africa.

Spanish ferry operator Baleària will operate two electric catamarans on this 18-mile (29-kilometer) route, with a maximum speed of 26 knots. Each vessel, built at the Armon shipyard in Gijón and designed by Incat Crowther, will accommodate up to 804 passengers and 225 vehicles.

The ferries will be powered by four electric propulsion units, each delivering 4 MW. They will draw power from batteries with an 11,500 kWh capacity per vessel.

Each ferry includes four diesel backup generators (11,200 kW total) to ensure operational reliability. However, every crossing is expected to be completed solely on battery power.

Charging will occur in Tarifa and Tangier during a one-hour port stop, using innovative autonomous robotic arms that connect to dedicated onshore power systems. The batteries recharge in as little as 40 minutes.

This shore-based infrastructure includes 8-MWh batteries at each port in addition to grid supply, resulting in a total project-wide battery capacity of 39 MWh. According to Baleària, these systems will enable 100% emissions-free operation, with crossings eliminating exhaust, noise, and vibration entirely.

"AYK is honoured to be selected by Baleària as the provider of this advanced battery solution," said Chris Kruger, AYK's founder.

Pablo García Anduiza, Baleària's new Projects Director, described the project as "pioneering, innovative, and technologically advanced," highlighting its role in meeting Spanish transport decarbonization targets and the 2050 EU climate objectives.

The new ferries, named España 2030 and Maroc 2030, are expected to enter service in 2027, following a 15-year concession awarded to Baleària by the Bay of Algeciras Port Authority, which prioritised technical and environmental criteria when selecting the operator. The new line is being established as the first statutory green corridor between Africa and Europe for passenger shipping.

AYK Energy notes that momentum is growing towards the adoption of electric and hybrid vessels globally, with this project representing another step forward in maritime decarbonisation and zero-emission transport between continents.