Torqeedo, a leading company for electric propulsion systems on the water, is providing the electric propulsion for a new patrol boat at Antwerp City Harbour. Built by Novi Marine, a Dutch specialist for professional RIBs and workboats, the Gemini WR650 Hybrid Patrol RIB combines electric and fuel-powered propulsion: two electric Torqeedo Cruise 6.0 (48 V) motors are combined with a Yamaha F150XCC outboard. This makes it one of the first operationally deployed hybrid patrol RIBs in its class, designed for surveillance, enforcement and intervention duties in a modern urban harbour environment.

A demanding harbour environment calls for versatile capabilities

“Ten years ago, we brought structure to the waterways. Today, we are building a versatile City Harbour that reconnects Antwerp, its residents and the water,” says Werner Weijts, Harbour Master of Antwerp City Harbour.

Over recent years, Antwerp City Harbour has grown into a vibrant environment where living, working, recreation and life on the water come together. At the same time, supervision and safety on the water remain essential elements of daily operations.

Through a public tender, the harbour sought a quiet, low-emission and reliable patrol boat. In everyday operation, the boat runs fully electric, reducing noise and local emissions. When additional thrust is required, the crew switches instantly to the Yamaha F150.

“Antwerp shows how capable and reliable electric propulsion is today, and how well it complements conventional technology when needed. As part of the Yamaha Motor Group, we can draw on the best components from both technologies and, together, actively advance the decarbonization of professional shipping,” says Heiko Vietmeier, CEO of Torqeedo.

Technical integration in a compact RIB

Integrating the two propulsion systems was a demanding task, which the joint team took on with full expertise: batteries, charging technology, cabling, motor control and operating systems all had to be accommodated within the 6.5-metre RIB — with no compromises on safety, serviceability or weight distribution. In addition, a control system was developed that allows the Yamaha engine and the electric drives to be operated and tilted independently of one another.

The Cruise 6.0 (48 V) motors used in the project belong to the current Cruise generation, with which Torqeedo also demonstrates how circularity can be put into practice in product development: up to 95 percent of the shaft-head’s plastic components are made from post-consumer recycled plastics.

Fewer emissions — without compromise

The Gemini WR650 Hybrid Patrol RIB is a compelling example of where the professional marine sector is heading. Government agencies, harbour authorities and enforcement organizations are increasingly looking for ways to reduce emissions without compromising on safety, performance or flexibility.

Thanks to the collaboration between Antwerp City Harbour, Novi Marine, Yamaha and Torqeedo, a boat has been created that brings all these requirements together.