BC Ferries: ABB's integrated power solution selected for 4 new hybrid-electric vessels delivered in 2029

ABB has been chosen to supply four new double-ended passenger and car ferries operated by British Columbia Ferry Services (BC Ferries), announced the Swiss electrification and automation company on 12/01/2026.

The four new hybrid-electric vessels are scheduled for delivery from China Merchants Industry Weihai (CMI Weihai) Shipyard at the beginning in 2029. They will operate "in and around the Strait of Georgia, the body of water that separates Vancouver Island from the Lower Mainland of British Columbia, Canada. The order was booked in the fourth quarter of 2025. Financial details were not disclosed", ABB said.

These vessels will replace "four end-of-life vessels" and will be equipped with ABB’s gearless, steerable electric propulsion, which helps "reduce underwater radiated noise. This will help to "safeguard at-risk species, such as the Southern Resident killer whale, and preserve one of the world’s most biologically rich marine ecosystems".

In addition, an onboard power distribution system "will serve as the backbone for efficient energy flow, minimizing conversion losses and…