ABB has been selected to supply power, propulsion and automation systems for two new rail-enabled Ro-Pax ferries in New Zealand . The vessels, named Kupe and Cook , are part of the country’s Cook Strait Ferry Replacement Programme. Guangzhou Shipyard International (GSI) will build the ferries for New Zealand government entity Ferry Holdings Limited. Delivery is scheduled for 2029 . New ferries to connect New Zealand’s islands The two ferries will operate on the 92-kilometre route between Wellington and Picton. Each vessel will measure 200 metres long and 28 metres wide . They will have capacity for 1,530 passengers and 2,400 lane metres of freight. This represents 63% more passenger capacity and 44% more freight capacity than the vessels they will replace. The ferries will also be rail-enabled. This will allow rail freight to move directly onto the vessels and reduce cargo handling during transfers between the North and South Islands. ABB supplies hybrid-electric propulsion The vessels will feature a fuel-agnostic hybrid-electric power and propulsion system. An 8.2 MWh battery energy storage system will support near-zero-emission operations in port. It can also provide a spinning reserve for 10 minutes. The system can be expanded to 12.3 MWh, with further capacity possible as shore charging infrastructure develops. ABB will also provide two Azipod propulsion units for each vessel. The 360-degree steerable units will improve manoeuvrability and replace traditional propeller shafts, rudders and stern thrusters. Technology targets efficiency and reliability ABB’s scope also includes four main alternators and equipment for three bow thrusters. The vessels will use ABB’s PEMS Power & Energy Management System to manage generators, batteries, propulsion and other onboard power requirements. ABB will also provide its Remote Diagnostic System for continuous monitoring, predictive maintenance and troubleshooting. “These ferries represent a key investment