Autonomous electric water taxis a key part of Kiel's next-gen intermodal public transport plans

Kiel, Germany - February 23, 2022 (www.waternewswire.com) Torqeedo has been awarded a contract to supply a complete electric drive train for a groundbreaking autonomous boat in the German city of Kiel.

The electric vessel, designated "Wavelab", will serve as a research platform for the "Clean Autonomous Public Transport Network" (CAPTN) initiative in Kiel. The program aims to create the infrastructure for an integrated inner-city mobility network based on multiple modes of transport on water and land.

"Wavelab" will be built by the Gebrüder Friedrich shipyard in Kiel and is scheduled to be delivered by the end of 2022. Torqeedo was selected to provide the fully integrated electric propulsion system. The package includes dual 50 kW Deep Blue steerable thrusters and six Deep Blue lithium-ion batteries with a total capacity of 240 kWh. Four Power 24-3500 batteries supply the 24V onboard grid. The system is completed by a 22kW fast charger, DC/DC converter and DC/AC converter.

The "Wavelab" will serve as an open platform for research and development of the required technologies for a planned clean autonomous public transportation network on the Kiel Fjord. It will follow a modular concept meaning that the vessel will be highly flexible to integrate new technology projects.

"The advantages of electric propulsion are obvious in terms of zero emissions and quiet operation," said Sönke Stich, sales manager of Gebr. Friedrich. "Torqeedo is a clear leader in sustainable mobility technology and will be a solid partner in developing this first-of-its-kind vessel."

"Electromobility and automation can help relieve urban congestion and reduce air pollution by shifting traffic from roadways to underutilized waterways," said Dr Michael Rummel, managing director of Torqeedo. "Torqeedo facilitates this transformation with modular, reliable and safe electric drive systems, all from a single supplier. We look forward to working with the Kiel CAPTN team to advance the state-of-the-art and help bring this modern, highly automated integrated transportation network to life."

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About Torqeedo

Torqeedo is the market leader for electric mobility on the water. Founded in 2005 in Starnberg, the company develops and manufactures electric and hybrid drives from 0.5 to 100 kW for commercial applications and recreational use. Torqeedo products are characterised by an uncompromising high-tech focus, maximum efficiency and complete system integration. Torqeedo is part of DEUTZ Group, one of the world's leading manufacturers of innovative drive systems. www.torqeedo.com

About Gebr. Friedrich

Gebr. Friedrich is an innovative maritime service provider, specialized in customized solutions for the individual needs of the shipping and research industry. With more than 100 years of experience and tradition, Gebr. Friedrich GmbH & Co. KG is the natural choice for ship conversions and services on board commercial and recreational vessels. The yard´s ability to integrate complex technical systems besides the mechanical shipbuilding and repair makes Gebr. Friedrich to a holistic partner for any new build project, especially in the field of sustainable propulsion and high-tech control systems. Gebr. Friedrich is a family-owned enterprise, established in 1921 in Kiel, Northern Germany. www.gfwerft.de

Media Contacts:

Tess Smallridge
Torqeedo
+49 8153 9999 060
Tess.Smallridge@torqeedo.com

Sönke Stich
Gebr. Friedrich GmbH & Co. KG Schiffswerft
+49 431 - 39 42 7 - 23
s.stich@gfwerft.de

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