DNV GL Unveils Unmanned, Zero-Emissions Ship Design

by Ship & Bunker News Team
Friday September 12, 2014

DNV GL has developed a design for an unmanned, battery-powered short-sea shipping vessel that could be built with existing technology and could save up to $34 million during its estimated 30-year lifetime, the company said in an emailed statement.

The ship, ReVolt, uses a 3,000 kilowatt hour battery that would allow it to travel for 100 nautical miles on a single recharge.

If the electricity came from renewable sources, the vessel would produce zero carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions.

DNV GL says the ship's ability to operate without a crew would improve safety, given that the majority of maritime accidents are caused by human error.

It would also eliminate the need for crew facilities, allowing for more loading capacity and lower operating and maintenance costs.

The vessel would travel at 6 knots, slower than the typical short sea ship, allowing for a design that reduces water resistance.

The ship concept is now being tested.

"'ReVolt' is intended to serve as inspiration for equipment makers, ship yards and ship owners to develop new solutions on the path to a safe and sustainable future", said Hans Anton Tvete, senior researcher at DNV GL.

Scandinavian research group SINTEF recently said unmanned oceangoing cargo ships could be in the water in 10 to 20 years.

Ship & Bunker News Team
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