In the frosty waters off the northern coast of Scotland, a new chapter in maritime innovation is unfolding. The Zevi 1, the first fully electric hydrofoil workboat, has just been delivered to Orkney, ready to embark on a three-year trial that could redefine inter-island operations. This isn’t just a boat; it’s a statement, a challenge to the status quo, and a glimpse into a future where electric propulsion isn’t just a pipe dream, but a reality.
The Zevi 1, an Artemis EF-12 Workboat XL, is the brainchild of Artemis Technologies, a Northern Ireland-based startup with a pedigree that includes a double Olympic sailing gold medalist and a spin-off from the America’s Cup Artemis Racing team. It’s not just about the shiny new toy; it’s about the technology that powers it—the eFoiler system. This isn’t your grandad’s hydrofoil. It’s a sophisticated setup of hydrofoil wings attached to the hull, designed to reduce drag and noise levels significantly. The result? A vessel that operates with zero emissions and a range of up to 60 nautical miles.
But the Zevi 1 isn’t just about the tech; it’s about the trial. For the next three years, it will connect Kirkwall with Shapinsay, Egilsay, Wyre, and Rousay through four daily rotations. It’s a test, a real-world evaluation of the ship’s compatibility with the specific challenges of inter-island operations. And it’s not just about the boat; it’s about the infrastructure too. An ultra-fast charger has been installed in Kirkwall specifically for this electric workboat.
This trial is part of the Electric Orkney project, a collaborative effort involving Artemis Technologies, Orkney Ferries, and the European Marine Energy Center (EMEC). It’s one of the projects partially funded via the UK government’s UK Shore (UK Shipping Office for Reducing Emissions) program. Since 2022, hundreds of millions of pounds have been poured into various projects based on maritime technology innovation and clean alternatives. The Zevi 1 is a testament to that investment, a symbol of the UK’s commitment to a greener maritime future.
But what does this mean for the future? Well, if the Zevi 1 proves successful, we could see a shift in the way we think about inter-island operations. Electric hydrofoil workboats could become the norm, reducing emissions and noise pollution. And it’s not just about workboats. Artemis Technologies is also delivering a second vessel, the Artemis EF-24 Passenger, designed as an alternative to conventional passenger ferries. It claims to have the same performance as these, but reduce fuel consumption by 85%. That’s a game-changer.
The delivery of Zevi 1 marks one of the biggest milestones since the Pioneer of Belfast’s debut, not just for Artemis Technologies, but also for the UK’s maritime industry. It’s a bold move, a challenge to the norm, and a spark for debate. But it’s also a step forward, a leap into a future where electric propulsion isn’t just a possibility, but a reality. So, let’s watch this space. The future of maritime innovation is here, and it’s electric.