King Watercraft has collaborated with clean energy company Fabrum on the design and build of a zero-emission hydrogen-electric powered boat.
Sea trials on H2Ocean, a hydrogen-powered RIB developed by the two New Zealand based companies are due to begin in January 2025.
The RIB has been developed to be suitable for tourism, commercial and leisure activities.
It can be adapted to suit the environment and operations of the end user – and be equipped to carry up to 12 people.
H2Ocean carries 18kg of 350 bar hydrogen gas, supplied to a fuel cell, which in turn maintains charging to a battery bank that is used to power the two electric stern drives.
The RIB is set to have a range of up to 150NM and is constructed with an aluminium hull and hypalon pontoons.
We are bringing our expertise in hydrogen propulsion systems to this project.
Christopher Boyle
“It’s exciting to be enabling another world-leading zero-emissions hydrogen project with our high-performance hydrogen-powered RIB boat,” explained Christopher Boyle, Fabrum’s executive chair.
“In collaboration with King Watercraft, we are bringing our expertise in hydrogen propulsion systems to this project, which showcases how hydrogen can support a new future pathway for the marine industry to decarbonise.
“This initiative has added significance as our companies are based in Christchurch, fast becoming known as the Hydrogen City of New Zealand.”
And he explained that hydrogen can be adapted to different sectors and capability to meet diverse energy needs.
Hydrogen has the potential to be ‘a cornerstone of the future energy landscape to support global decarbonisation efforts’, he said.
What makes us unique is our ability to push design boundaries.
Will King
The fuel will also reduce reliance on fossil fuels, and enable energy security and sustainability.
“The Fabrum team is committed to leading the way with world-leading zero-emission hydrogen projects,” added Christopher.
Will King, founder and MD of King Watercraft, added: “For over ten years, we have focused on producing bespoke RIBS designed specifically for the needs of our customers in New Zealand and beyond.
“What makes us unique is our ability to push design boundaries to stand out from the crowd, always striving to be one step ahead.
“With a focus on being at the forefront of sustainable propulsion, the shared values of King Watercraft and Fabrum brought this idea to life and together, this project offers a lighter footprint for the marine industry here and around the world.”
