A comparison of marine hybrid system operating modes

Emission-free and whisper-quiet – in zero-emission mode, the energy for the drive as well as the power consumption is provided exclusively by the battery. The battery can be charged in three ways: Shore connection in port, on-board gensets, main propulsion engines.

Benefits:

• No noise and exhaust gas emissions
• No vibration
• Access to special protection zones

In diesel-electric mode, power supply and propulsion are provided by the existing on-board gensets and supported by the battery. This reduces main drive operating hours.

Benefits:

• Low noise and exhaust gas emissions
• Low vibration
• Efficient operation (low fuel consumption)

In a two-engine system cross-over mode, both drivelines are operated in different modes. While one driveline is in diesel mode, the electric motor operates as an alternator and provides the electrical energy for the ship. In the second driveline, the main diesel engine is disengaged so that the e-engine receives its energy from the first diesel engine. It operates in motor mode and thus provides the drive energy.

Benefits:

• Extremely economical operation
• High range
• Low vibration
• Extended operating time until maintenance (TBO)

In comfortable hotel mode, power is supplied by the battery alone while the diesel engines are switched off. The innovative technology ensures that power consumption is possible for an extended period without diesel engines. Independently of this, the batteries can be charged in parallel via a charging connection.

Benefits:

• No noise & exhaust gas emissions
• No vibrations
• Full operational readiness without engines

In classic diesel mode, the energy for the drive is provided by the conventional diesel engine, or diesel engines in multi-engine systems. In this mode, the electric motor rotates along without function and without generating electricity. In addition, electricity can be generated in diesel mode to charge the batteries. In this case, the operating hours of the gensets are reduced.

Benefits:

• Established drive
• High range
• Familiar flexible driving styles from economical to sporty

Here, different technologies complement each other and thus create the best result: when power is needed, the electric motor boosts energy from its power reserves. Boost mode therefore offers the highest power density and enables maximum performance. At the same time, it provides support in the lower speed range, which in turn protects the combustion engine. The result: optimised acceleration combined with an improved driving experience

Benefits:

• Combining high performance with the advantages of hybrid and zero-emission propulsion
• Improved load behaviour of the combustion engine thanks to optimised operating point