KiwiRail has selected German multi-national MAN Energy Solutions to supply the main generator engines for its new hybrid-electric fleet arriving from 2025.
The Inter-island Resilient Connection (iReX) programme is a $1.45 billion investment which will see KiwiRail’s two new, rail-enabled ferries coming into service in 2025 and 2026, and the construction of new terminal precincts in Waitohi Picton and Kaiwharawhara Wellington.
“The MAN 32/44CR four-stroke engine has proven itself over approximately 3 million hours of operating experience,” says iReX Ships Programme Manager Massimo Soprano.
“Manufactured in Germany, these engines are highly efficient and will support KiwiRail’s goal of net-zero carbon emissions by 2050.”
Mr Soprano says MAN Energy Solutions already has a team based in New Zealand which can provide local service support for Interislander and scheduled maintenance for the two purpose-built ferries.
“Local support is a big advantage to our operation in ensuring a resilient service across Te Moana o Raukawakawa Cook Strait and a reliable extension of both State Highway One and the main trunk railway.”
It is more than 20 years since KiwiRail last introduced a brand-new purpose-built Interislander ferry to its fleet. The new ferries, which are being built by Hyundai Mipo Dockyard in South Korea, will be more efficient and support KiwiRail’s goal to reduce carbon emissions by 30 per cent by 2030 and be carbon neutral by 2050.
Bigger than the current vessels, they are being designed to cater for 30 years of freight and passenger growth.
Elvis Ettenhofer, Head of Marine Four-stroke Asia Pacific at MAN Energy Solutions says the company has entered into a contract with Hyundai Mipo Dockyard to supply the engines for the new ferries. Each new vessel will be equipped with four MAN 32/44CR engines.
“The MAN 32/44CR’s robust design is proven in demanding applications and I’m very happy to see it chosen for a project of national significance to New Zealanders. These engines feature our common rail injection system, well known for its flexibility, low levels of noise and vibration, and reduced smoke during engine start and operation, which are all important features for passenger ferries.”
Main features:
Turbocharging system
– High efficiency constant pressure MAN TCR series exhaust turbo charging system
Engine automation and control
– MAN in-house developed engine attached safety and control system MAN SaCoS
Fuel system
– Advanced electronic common rail injection system
Lube oil system
– Attached lube oil automatic filter
Cooling system
– 2-string high and low temperature cooling water systems
Starting system
– Pressurized air starter (turbine type)
Engine mounting
– Resilient or rigid mounting