A recent media controversy in the UK press surrounding P&O Ferries’ two latest Chinese-built ferries, Pioneer and Liberté, is indicative of the confusion relating to battery-hybrid ferries’ charging solutions. Reports that there would not be sufficient grid capability in Dover to charge up their batteries using shore power revealed generalist journalists’ unfamiliarity with shaft power generation solutions.

The source of the confusion likely stems from the differing operating profiles of a plug-in hybrid car and its maritime counterpart. P&O will still be able to operate these vessels 40% more efficiently than a conventional diesel electric propulsion setup without ever plugging in.