New electric ferries to ply the ‘Venice of the East’ in Bangkok

“We pride ourselves on being Thailand’s leading innovative alternative energy company, focusing on delivering cutting-edge technology and environmental friendly solutions for better living,” said Amorn.

“Today marks a significant milestone as we launch the first 100% Thai electric ferry prototype to be opened by the end of 2019. It aims to transform Thailand into a truly smart transport country, improving the standard of urban living quality and reducing pollution.”

Amorn said that after the introduction of the Thai-owned electric car, badged MINE Mobility in March last year, EA has expanded the use of its battery technology with the planned launch of electric ferries.

The vessels will run from the Nonthaburi Pier to Wat Rajsingkorn Pier. The 20km stretch of river will be covered in less than 40 minutes.

“We plan to build 54 electric vessels at an investment of 1 billion baht. The transport service with the electric boats will start at the end of this year and all 54 boats will be fully operational by February next year,” said Amorn.

“River transport can be used as another jigsaw connecting to the Bangkok Metropolitan Administration’s entire public transportation network of electrical vehicles. The electric ferry project will return a good liveable city to the people of Bangkok, which is one of the most important tourism destinations in the country,” said Amorn.

The ferries, which are designed by EA, are being produced by a local supplier for the company under a subcontracting arrangement.

The ferries will run with electric energy supplied by a battery with a capacity of 800 kilowatt hours. The boats, 24 metres long by 7 metres across, will use battery technology developed by EA. They can hold about 200 passengers.

EA plans to set up a battery manufacturing plant in Chachoengsao for its electric vehicle projects.

SOURCE: The Nation