The design of the new zero-emission ferry which will operate between Belfast and Bangor has officially been unveiled.

Artemis Technologies revealed a new look at the vessel named 'Zero', which is expected to take to the water in 2024 as part of a pilot scheme.

The 100% electric ferry is among several zero-emission vessels being developed by Artemis Technologies in Belfast, Northern Ireland, designed to provide commercially viable green transport solutions for operators, cities and governments across the world.

With a top speed of 38 knots, the EF-24 Passenger ferry offers a range of 115 nautical miles at a 25 knots cruise speed and produces fuel savings of up to 85% compared to conventional high-speed diesel ferries.

Founder and CEO of Artemis Technologies, Dr Iain Percy OBE said: "We have combined our experience from the worlds of high-performance sailing, motorsports, aerospace, and advanced manufacturing to design and develop an electric propulsion system that is quite simply a game changer for the maritime industry.

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"Our high-speed passenger ferry provides a cost-effective public transport solution that helps address air pollution, congestion, and noise.

"By encouraging multimodal transport in urban areas, we will enable cities around the world to utilise and benefit from the untapped potential of their waterways.

"With hydrofoils that lift the boats out of the water, we are dramatically reducing drag. This is coupled with a submerged electric drivetrain that is exceptionally efficient, as proven through rigorous testing with our 12m eFoiler® workboat, validating our digital simulations and performance prediction."

The ferries will be fully accessible, incredibly spacious with a range of facilities on board including bike racks, cabin bag and overhead storage, baby changing facilities, and charging points.

The vessels will also feature a unique high-speed collision avoidance system developed with ECIT, part of Queen's University Belfast. The system will ensure the safety of operations in port and close to shore by safely diverting the ferry on an altered path away from sea life, wildlife, debris and other in-water objects that might otherwise be obscured from view.

Artemis Technologies has partnered with Condor Ferries to operate a pilot scheme using the first EF-24 Passenger ferry. This will come into service in 2024, running between Belfast and Bangor.

Secretary of State for Northern Ireland Chris Heaton-Harris added: "My congratulations to Artemis Technologies and Belfast Maritime Consortium on unveiling the plans for this exciting zero emissions vessel.

"I recently visited Artemis' headquarters. I am delighted that they are seizing the many opportunities that the development of green transport presents, and which the UK Government is committed to supporting through our Net Zero Strategy.

"The development of such world-leading technology will ensure that Belfast remains at the forefront of maritime innovation, while providing a boost to the local green economy."