A pilot project, focusing on emission-free river cruises, could mark yet another revolution in the ecological sector. So it was that Eichberger Schiffsservice commissioned Torqeedo to use alternative propulsion to offer the operation of a houseboat. But first thing’s first!
We’d like to mention that Eichberger Schiffservice is a leader in river cruise services and works with tour operators throughout Europe. For over 30 years the company has been acting as a partner for organizers who aim to develop innovative solutions and ideas for the market. Torqeedo, on its side, can offer a range of customisable solutions for electric mobility on water. These range from electric and hybrid drives from 0.5 to 100 kW for commercial or recreational use.
A project combining luxury and zero emissions
A few months ago, Eichberger Schiff Service engaged Torqeedo to work on a fully integrated electric propulsion system to provide the operation of a luxurious and innovative houseboat. First news reports indicate that an Argo-Anleg fuel cell and solar panels will also be integrated. This will give tourists the opportunity to hire the full service of the ‘Kingfisher’ for a lasting, emission-free travel experience on Germany’s inland waterways.
The idea for the project stems from the acknowledgment of tourists who have completely changed their habits also during holidays and travel. And this is where the build-up at Torqeedo began, as explained by Matthias Vogel, Senior Vice President of Customised Solutions:
‘At Torqeedo, we are delighted to deliver our electric drive systems for a pioneering project such as the ‘Kingfisher.’ As a provider of comprehensive system solutions, one of Torqeedo’s core competencies is the integration of solar and hydrogen technologies into the ship’s propulsion system to achieve the desired range.’
Working together, it will be shown that luxury and sustainability can coexist and enhance the travel experience for tourists, without being in opposition.
From solar power to hydrogen combustion
The Kingfisher is a project that was financially supported by the Bavarian Ministry of Economic Affairs, Regional Development and Energy (StMWi). Therefore, the Kiebitzberg shipyard in Havelberg was able to work on equipping a powerful Deep Blue 50i engine with Torqeedo’s Deep Blue 80 battery with a capacity of 80 kWh. The integrated fuel cell of Argo-Anleg, as mentioned above, ensures good navigation in the water, providing energy self-sufficiency for several days.
And the prototype is also equipped with solar panels on the roofs of the houseboat, which can generate up to 3 kW per hour of additional energy.
All set for the big launch
The encounter with Torqeedo, as Manfred Eichberger of Eichberger Schiffservice GmbH explained, brings the vision of hydrogen propulsion for smaller charter boats to life. Such systems are still rather new and unexplored in the industry, but thanks to experienced engineers and competent authorities, guidelines can be developed through the testing phase.
The big launch of the floating house, at least as a demonstration, is planned for September. There will be a testing phase on the river before producing a batch of ten units, with the aim of then increasing its production for the future.