France Launches First Hydrogen-Powered River Vessel: Zulu 06
Key Ideas
  • The Sogestran Group has unveiled the Zulu 06, the first hydrogen-powered river vessel in France, showcasing a cleaner and greener alternative for waterborne transport.
  • The vessel, powered by two 200 kW hydrogen fuel cells and carrying 300 kg of compressed hydrogen, can operate for up to seven days without refueling, significantly reducing its carbon footprint.
  • French Minister of Transport, François Durovray, hailed the Zulu 06 as a major breakthrough in energy transition and emphasized the importance of public-private partnerships in promoting sustainable transport solutions.
  • The Zulu 06, part of the EU-funded FLAGSHIPS project, highlights the collaborative efforts of 11 European partners towards decarbonizing the water transport industry and achieving ambitious climate targets.
The Sogestran Group has made a significant stride in environmental sustainability by launching the Zulu 06, the first hydrogen-powered river vessel in France. The vessel, christened on the Seine River in Paris, is designed to carry up to 400 tons of cargo and is equipped with hydrogen fuel cells from Ballard, enabling it to operate for seven days without refueling. With a focus on reducing carbon emissions and promoting green mobility, the Zulu 06 represents a pivotal development in the field of waterborne transport. At the launch ceremony, France's Minister of Transport, François Durovray, lauded the Zulu 06 as a groundbreaking advancement for the country's energy transition. He emphasized the importance of collaboration between the public and private sectors in driving forward sustainable transport solutions, underscoring France's commitment to innovation and environmental responsibility. Valérie Bouillon-Delporte, Executive Director of the Clean Hydrogen Partnership, highlighted the positive impact of integrating hydrogen fuel cells into the Zulu 06. She noted that besides improving air quality and reducing noise pollution in Paris, the vessel will play a crucial role in reducing the carbon footprint of waterborne transport, contributing significantly to environmental preservation. The Zulu 06's involvement in the EU-funded FLAGSHIPS project showcases the collective efforts of European partners in advancing zero-emission waterborne transport. Ada Jakobsen, CEO of Maritime CleanTech, commended the vessel's role in accelerating the shift towards cleaner energy solutions in transport, particularly in meeting stringent climate targets. Overall, the launch of the Zulu 06 marks a significant milestone in the maritime industry, demonstrating the potential of hydrogen-powered vessels to revolutionize sustainable transportation and pave the way for a greener future.
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