Two fully-electric vessels will take tourists to the heart of the Niagara Falls, undisturbed by engine noise or exhaust fumes
Maid Of The Mist, which has been navigating the waters of the Lower Niagara River since 1846, is going electric this year.
According to Governor Andrew Cuomo, the two first all-electric catamaran-style vessels are currently under construction in the U.S. and will be ready for the 2019 season, replacing the old Maid of the Mist VI (1990) and Maid of the Mist VII (1997).
It’s expected that more than 1.6 million guests from around the world with get an opportunity for an up-close, iconic view of Niagara Falls using hydroelectric power.
The vessels were designed by Propulsion Data Systems and are under construction by Burger Boat Company in Manitowoc, Wisc., which using ABB propulsion, battery and charging.
According to the press release, batteries will be recharged for 7 minutes after each trip to 80% capacity.
“Designed by Propulsion Data Systems, the new totally integrated vessels are currently under construction by Burger Boat Company in Manitowoc, Wisc. In mid-May, the modules will be transported to Niagara Falls and lowered onto the Maid of the Mist dry dock and maintenance facility for assembly. Following completion of construction, launch and certification, the new vessels will be placed into service in mid-September.
ABB, a pioneering technology leader in digital industries, will supply a comprehensive integrated power and propulsion solution for the new-build vessels, including lithium ion battery packs and an onshore charging system, enabling sustainable operation with maximum reliability.
Powered by ABB’s zero-emission technology, the two fully-electric vessels will take tourists to the heart of the Niagara Falls, undisturbed by engine noise or exhaust fumes. Batteries will be recharged for seven minutes after each trip to 80 percent capacity, allowing for maximum efficiency and battery life.
The hull of the new vessels features an icon of the electricity symbol within a water droplet surrounded by a turbine with Niagara Falls in the background. The color scheme is environmentally-friendly green combined with the blue of the water.”
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