The New South Wales government has signed contracts for the trial of a 24-metre, battery-electric ferry, marking a step toward transitioning Sydney Harbour’s fleet away from diesel propulsion. The trial is scheduled to run for 12 months starting in 2028, though this represents a two-year delay from the project’s original early 2026 start date.
Transport Minister John Graham stated that the Australian-built, northern beaches-designed vessel is intended to provide cleaner air and a quieter ride on the harbour. Once the trial concludes, the ferry is expected to enter passenger service in 2029, likely operating on a route to the new Sydney fish market.
Strategic Transition and Testing
The electric trial is a precursor to a broader plan announced by the Minns government in 2024 to replace 40 diesel-powered ferries with electric or hydrogen-powered vessels by 2035. However, the government has noted that no decision has been made regarding further investments in the electric fleet until the performance and service range are assessed by Transdev and Transport for NSW.
Howard Collins, the coordinator general for Transport for NSW, indicated that testing will take place in “real-world conditions.” This process will evaluate the vessel’s reliability and the charging systems, which are to be installed at Barangaroo wharf, while incorporating feedback from crew, and passengers.
Manufacturing and Fleet Context
Construction of the trial vessel will begin later this year at the Richardson Devine Marine shipyard in Tasmania. This shipyard previously built the seven Parramatta River class ferries that have been launched in stages since May 2024.
The move aligns with a wider commitment to reach net zero emissions across public transport operations by 2035. This includes a $1.9bn deal to power all-electric trains, light rail, and bus services with fully renewable energy starting next year.
Supply Chain and Infrastructure Challenges
While the government has ordered over 500 electric buses—with 7,500 more expected to eventually replace a fleet of 8,000 diesel vehicles—challenges remain. Fossil fuels continue to power most state public buses, diesel ferries, and regional and intercity trains.
the transition faces ethical scrutiny. In March, the NSW anti-slavery commissioner found that Transport for NSW failed to take reasonable steps to engage with groups regarding the potential use of forced labour in the Democratic Republic of Congo and Xinjiang in China within lithium-ion battery supply chains.
Further infrastructure is also required for the planned routes. While the new Sydney fish market opened earlier this year, ferry service is not yet available, with a $30m wharf still in the design stage as of January.
Frequently Asked Questions
When will the electric ferry trial begin and how long will it last?
The trial is scheduled to begin in 2028 and will run for a period of 12 months.
Which route is the electric ferry expected to serve in 2029?
We see hoped that the vessel will operate on a new route to the Sydney fish market when it enters passenger service.
What is the ultimate goal for Sydney’s ferry fleet?
The government plans to replace 40 diesel-powered ferries with Australian-made electric or hydrogen-powered vessels by 2035.
Do you believe the transition to electric public transport should be prioritized over the expansion of existing routes?
