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Similar to the automotive industry, the marine industry is undergoing a significant transformation. More recreational and commercial vessels are shifting toward hybrid-electric propulsion systems.
This transition is driven by environmental regulations, rising fuel costs, reduced noise levels, and a growing demand for more efficient performance. Hybrid and electric boats require fewer oil and transmission fluid changes, filter replacements, and starter problems, resulting in fewer maintenance responsibilities and winterization tasks for owners. Additionally, powerboats with electric motors provide full torque instantly, allowing boats to plane faster.
Current users of hybrid-electric propulsion technologies include distance sailors, who require efficient energy, and ferries that operate in areas where combustion engines are prohibited.
Notably, the nation’s largest ferry operator, Washington State Ferries, is currently transitioning and developing its fleet to operate with hybrid-electric propulsion. San Francisco Bay Ferry is also developing a new fleet of fully electric passenger ferries. Ocean sailboat racing classes have begun to change class rules to encourage the transition to hybrid-electric propulsion and energy systems.
Like the automotive world, the move to hybrid technology introduces a mix of new benefits and new risks. From a forensic engineering perspective, this shift demands a new understanding of how marine systems operate, fail, and lead to accidents. Parallel to our engineers’ work in electric automobile investigations, our team can apply advanced knowledge in electric boat accidents to provide an expert analysis of your case.
What Defines a Hybrid Propulsion System?
A hybrid marine propulsion system includes any boat with a combustion engine and one or more electric motors. This system can consist of a combustion engine generator, a wind generator, a towed water generator, or solar panels. Some of these systems can include lithium-ion battery packs.
Photos Courtesy of Steve St. Onge
Safety Concerns
While hybrid-electric boats offer significant advantages, they also introduce new layers of complexity, and complexity tends to be where failures hide.
Lithium-Ion Battery Hazards
High-voltage lithium-ion batteries are central to hybrid systems. These batteries require careful thermal management and can pose a fire risk if damaged, overcharged, or exposed to saltwater. Due to the compact nature of boats, these batteries are often located in tight, poorly ventilated compartments.
Unlike a fuel leak, which is usually visible and often odor-detectable, a thermal runaway in a marine battery can happen silently and spread quickly, especially in enclosed hulls. A thermal runaway can ignite an uncontrollable fire in minutes.
When given the option, boat owners should use lithium iron phosphate (LFP) batteries, as they are regarded as more stable for nautical usage compared to other types of lithium-ion batteries.
Electrical System Failures
Hybrid propulsion systems rely on sophisticated power management systems to switch between combustion and electric modes. Improper wiring, poor insulation, or moisture intrusion can lead to shorts and sparks, as well as loss of propulsion. Additionally, inoperable navigation or communication systems during critical moments can cause accidents.
Software & Control Malfunctions
Modern hybrid boats depend on control software to regulate engine load, charge levels, and motor coordination. Bugs, sensor failures, or updates that have gone wrong can cause several failures, including miscommunicating throttle inputs, disabling systems at inopportune times, and triggering false alarms or shutting down propulsion.
With the advent of hybrid-electric powered boats, engineers must now consider software logs, update history, and system diagnostics, in addition to traditional mechanical inspections, when analyzing a boating accident.
Firefighting Challenges
In the event of a fire onboard, hybrid vessels may require different response protocols. For example, water may not be safe to use on energized battery compartments. The fire suppression systems must be rated for electrical and lithium-ion battery fires, and the crew must be trained to isolate the lithium-ion power sources safely.
The Future of Boat Investigations
The transition to hybrid-electric propulsion involves a new safety consideration and an engineering challenge. While hybrid systems promise cleaner, quieter, and more efficient operation, they also introduce unfamiliar components and potential failure points.
At CED Technologies, our engineers recognize that these new technologies will be crucial in accurately investigating marine incidents and preventing future ones. Connect with us today to learn more about how we can support your boating accident cases.
