Advanced Propulsion for a Sustainable Future

The MV Dirac is powered by two 250kW Ecomar Kairos motors, paired with a 180kWh lithium-ion battery pack. To extend its range, the vessel is equipped with a hydrogen fuel cell, enabling longer operations without reliance solely on battery power. The hydrogen is stored in lightweight, hand-portable BOC Genie bottles, which can be easily replaced onboard, making it possible to recharge the vessel anywhere.

This practical refueling system eliminates the need for expensive port infrastructure, offering unparalleled flexibility. Exeter Port Authority’s Harbour Master, Grahame Forshaw, highlighted the practicality of the system:

“The beauty of the hydrogen refueling is that the port doesn’t need to install expensive equipment. We can carry the bottles to the boat, and they weigh about the same as a regular barbecue bottle. We can easily charge the batteries directly from the pontoon as well, so it makes the move to clean energy really easy.”

A Collaborative Effort for Decarbonization

Built in partnership with Ecomar Propulsion, the MV Dirac is undergoing final outfitting and trials at Exmouth Harbour with support from Exeter University’s Centre for Future Clean Mobility. This project not only showcases AMC’s capabilities in bespoke vessel design but also aims to demonstrate the viability of hydrogen propulsion in real-world maritime operations.

Ecomar Propulsion CEO Eugene Bari emphasised the project’s broader mission:

“We hope to prove to the communities around the River Exe that the transition to clean maritime is easy, safe, and sensible. Hydrogen propulsion offers a reliable, sustainable solution, and with forward-thinking ports like Exeter, Britain can lead the way in decarbonizing our waterways.”

AMC’s Commitment to Sustainable Innovation

This project exemplifies AMC’s dedication to bespoke vessel construction that combines cutting-edge technology with sustainability. By collaborating with Ecomar Propulsion and Ad Hoc Marine Designs Ltd, AMC continues to lead in creating cleaner, more efficient vessels for the future.

For more details about the MV Dirac, visit Ecomar Propulsion’s article here.