A partnership between Ampcontrol, The University of Newcastle and Steber International has conducted a series of successful trials of a hybrid diesel-electric boat prototype.
The seven metre test rig was officially launched on the Manning River at Taree this week.
Potential uses include marine park boats, police boats, recreational and leisure boats, harbour foreshore inspection boats, tourist boats and security vessels.
Leaders in Australian boat manufacturing and industrial composite technology, Steber International approached Ampcontrol in 2018 requesting assistance to develop a prototype hybrid police boat.
Ampcontrol's technology and engineering expertise were applied to leverage the silence of the electric power system to enable a whisper-quiet mode for operations requiring stealth.
The diesel generator design by Ampcontrol provides power support when needed to ensure its operating range is not compromised.
The hybrid diesel/electric propulsion system allows a boat to be power efficient, quiet and be significantly more emission friendly without suffering any loss of cruising range. The application of batteries and an electric motor facilitates a reduction in the size of the diesel engines required, while maintaining the same, or higher, power ratings for the vessel.
Initial trials with one person on board attained 20 knots and with seven people on board the speed was 18 knots. With 9.5kilovolt-amp gen-set installed and carrying a full complement of equipment and crew, a rate of 15 knots achieved.
Ampcontrol managing director and chief executive Rod Henderson said it was great to get out on the water after extensive research and development and electric power system testing.
"The experience and on-water performance are impressive; there is no vibration; it's quiet and has excellent torque and speed. It's great to see another innovative power supply solution designed by the people of Ampcontrol put into practice," added Mr Henderson.
Steber International General Manager, Alan Steber said the exciting project has unlimited potential across the entire marine landscape.
"Ampcontrol and the University of Newcastle have added their considerable skills making this a genuinely collaborative effort on all levels."
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