Electric and Hybrid Solutions for Close to Shore Vessels
ABB’s drivetrain solutions power close-to-shore vessels such as ferries and workboats with efficient, reliable, and sustainable propulsion - advancing cleaner operations and smarter energy use on the water.
Towards Cleaner, Smarter Marine Operations
ABB delivers advanced electric and hybrid propulsion systems for ferries and workboats operating near shore. Based on ABB’s proven low-voltage drivetrain technology, these compact and modular systems combine water-cooled inverters, high-performance batteries, and efficient permanent magnet motors to reduce emissions, lower fuel consumption, and minimize maintenance - helping operators move toward a cleaner, more efficient future.
Key Benefits
Proven expertise
With 130+ years in transport technology, ABB brings deep expertise to develop and deliver reliable, high-performance systems for the marine industry.Customizable
Products and systems are configurable to meet specific customer needs, combining power density, efficiency, and compact design.Maximized performance
Designed for efficiency, ABB solutions reduce energy loss and optimize performance, lowering both costs and emissions.Global footprint local support
Global network backed by local experts ensures fast, responsive service throughout the product lifecycle.Sustainability
Electric propulsion and open-deck solutions help reduce CO₂ and emissions, supporting customers to meet global decarbonization goals.Certified and compliant
Built to ABB’s high standards and strict marine industry requirements, our products deliver proven, reliable performance backed by experience across rail, mining, and marine.Common applications
ABB’s marine product portfolio delivers reliable, energy-efficient solutions for propulsion systems up to 1,500 kW, as well as deck and auxiliary machinery including drives for winches, hydraulic systems and other deck equipment.
Electric and hybrid propulsion systems enable quiet, low-emission operations for commuter ferries, passenger boats, and water taxis. ABB’s HES880 drives and MAX battery systems support efficient power conversion and onboard energy storage for smooth, sustainable journeys.
Robust propulsion and auxiliary systems designed for tugboats (harbor or coastal), utility boats, survey vessels, dredge tenders, and oil spill response boats. ABB solutions deliver dependable torque, precise control, and high availability even in demanding port operations.
Open-deck configurations benefit from ABB’s AMXE Marine motor, designed for harsh marine environments with high ingress protection and a compact, lightweight design. Combined with HES880 drives, it ensures optimal propulsion efficiency and power for trawlers, longliners, and coastal fishing boats.
Designed for crew transfer, pilot, patrol, and rescue boats, ABB’s compact hybrid and electric propulsion systems enhance maneuverability, responsiveness, and onboard efficiency. Integrated control with HES880 drives ensures smooth, reliable operation through frequent start–stop cycles, reducing emissions and maintenance in demanding near-shore service.
Tailored for fast supply, ROV, and diving support vessels, ABB delivers scalable propulsion and power systems built for continuous offshore operation. The combination of AMXE marine motors, HES880 drives, and MAX battery systems enables efficient energy management, hybrid propulsion profiles, and dependable performance in challenging offshore conditions.