The Sogestran Group launched the ZULU 06, France’s first hydrogen-powered river vessel, on the Seine in Paris on 3 December.
Stretching 55 meters in length and with a cargo capacity of 400 tons, the ZULU 06 was designed by LMG Marin and has a power generation system supplied by ABB Marine & Ports and two 200 kW hydrogen fuel cells delivered by Ballard. The 300 kg of compressed hydrogen enables seven days of operational autonomy, representing an efficient and eco-friendly distribution in urban settings.
Furthermore, this hydrogen propulsion system in the French market represents a significant step forward in cargo transport at European waterways, demonstrating the potential for clean energy to revolutionize logistics. The ZULU 06 is developed through the EU-funded FLAGSHIPS project, which has spent six years pushing the boundaries of zero-emission waterborne transport.
Valérie Bouillon-Delporte, Executive Director of the Clean Hydrogen Partnership, said “The successful integration of fuel cells into the riverboat ZULU 06, soon to operate commercially in the heart of Paris, marks a significant technical and regulatory milestone. Building on the momentum of the FLAGSHIPS project, further applications in river and maritime transport will enhance air quality, reduce noise pollution, and drastically shrink the carbon footprint of waterborne transportation.”
Moreover, Pascal Girardet, Chairman and CEO, Sogestran Group, commented that while the hydrogen industry is still maturing, every innovation like the ZULU 06 accelerates its democratization, ultimately building a robust value chain.
Inland waterways are the veins and arteries of Europe’s green freight system. Sogestran’s hydrogen-powered vessel in Paris demonstrates the power of bold EU partnerships and cutting-edge technology to tackle the challenges of decarbonisation. Together, we’re accelerating the shift toward cleaner energy solutions to meet urgent climate targets.
…said Ada Jakobsen, CEO, Maritime CleanTech.
