Do we hear Google self-driving cars? Nope, it's even better. Germany-based international classification society DNV GL has recently unveiled a new concept ship design for the short sea shipping market that might just change the rules of the game. Battery powered, highly efficient and unmanned, ReVolt is supposed to be a greener, smarter and safer vessel than conventionally fueled and operated ones.
ReVolt concept was released this week at SMM Hamburg, one of the world’s leading maritime trade fairs. Engineers claim the concept short sea shipping vessel could turn out to be a solution to the growing needs of marine transport that not only lowers environmental issues, but could also make the transportation cheaper.
Instead of using diesel fuel or even liquefied natural gas, ReVolt is fully powered by a 3000 kWh battery, thus it reduces the operating costs by minimizing the number of high maintenance parts. Moreover, its designers claim it needs no man on board to ship and it’s safe enough to arrive in one piece at the destination.
DNV GL claims that, at least in concept, the vessel has a range of 100 nautical miles (115 m/185 km) before recharge is needed, and if the energy required is harnessed form renewable sources, this would eliminate carbon dioxide emissions. It could also save energy by travelling slower than traditional vessels do, because it leads to a less water resistance.
Having now crew would not only lower to none the risk of human error, but it will also make the concept more cost-efficient. Compared to a diesel-run ship, DNV GL says the ReVolt could save up to $34 million during its estimated 30-year-life-time.
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