Originally ordered as a diesel ferry in 2019, Hull 096 emerged six years later as the largest electric vehicle ever built, now preparing to serve a route between Uruguay and Argentina using clean battery power.
- 130-meter battery-electric ferry crosses Pacific on heavy-lift ship
- Operates a 30-nautical-mile route between Uruguay and Argentina
- Carries 2,100 passengers and 225 vehicles per trip
What happened
A ferry originally commissioned as diesel was redesigned to be fully battery-electric during a pandemic pause in production. Built by Incat in Tasmania, Hull 096 is now the largest electric vehicle ever constructed, measuring 130 meters and running entirely on electric batteries. After being loaded onto the MV Black Marlin heavy-lift transporter, the ferry made a complex and lengthy journey across the Pacific Ocean, around the southern tip of South America, and into Uruguayan waters.
This monumental marine operation culminated in a welcoming ceremony in Nueva Palmira, Uruguay, as the ferry was floated off its transporter for final commissioning in Colonia del Sacramento. Hull 096 will soon begin operating a 30-nautical-mile daily route across the Rio de la Plata, shuttling passengers and vehicles between Uruguay and Argentina. The route’s crossing time of about an hour fits well within the ferry’s roughly 90-minute battery run time.
Why it feels good
The transformation of Hull 096 from a diesel to a massive battery-electric ferry represents a significant advance in sustainable transportation. By using over 5,000 battery modules and a lightweight aluminum hull, the vessel maximizes efficiency while substantially reducing emissions compared to traditional diesel-powered ships. This provides a cleaner alternative for a busy passenger and vehicle ferry route, contributing to a greener future.
Incat’s achievement also highlights the contribution of skilled shipbuilders and innovative engineering. The ferry underscores the potential for maritime transport to evolve in response to climate challenges by adopting cleaner technologies. This success encourages other operators, as shown by orders placed by European ferry companies for similar electric vessels under construction.
What to enjoy or watch next
Now commissioning in Uruguay, Hull 096—named China Zorrilla after a beloved Uruguayan actress—will begin regular service soon, delighting commuters and visitors on both sides of the Rio de la Plata. Watch for news of its operational milestones and the real-world benefits of electric ferry service in South America.
Meanwhile, keep an eye on similar projects globally, such as the Danish company Molslinjen’s three forthcoming Incat-built electric ferries set to operate some of northern Europe’s busiest routes. The success of Hull 096 signals a growing trend toward electrification in marine transport, offering hope for cleaner oceans and quieter harbors worldwide.