Port of Tyne Partners with Artemis Technologies and Invests in UK's First Fully Electric Foiling Pilot Boat

The Port of Tyne has purchased the UK's first fully electric foiling pilot vessel, a significant milestone both for the Port and for the UK's maritime sector.

The state-of-the-art vessel, which will be delivered before the end of the year, will be used to transfer pilots onto the ships delivering essential goods and cargoes to the North East of England.

This significant investment by the Port of Tyne will further enhance both the safety and efficiency of the Port’s operations. It is also another major step towards the delivery of a fully net zero pilotage service as part of the Port’s continuing drive to reduce emissions and decarbonise.

Designed and built by Artemis Technologies in Belfast, the Artemis EF-12 Pilot boat is powered by Artemis’ patented eFoiler® technology, producing zero operational emissions and offering a cleaner alternative to traditional diesel-powered vessels. The integration of advanced hydrofoil and electric propulsion technologies ensures a smooth, quiet and safe journey.

Matt Beeton, CEO at the Port of Tyne, said:

“Adding the EF-12 Pilot to the Port’s fleet is a significant milestone not just for the Port of Tyne, but for the maritime sector as a whole. As the first UK port to adopt this groundbreaking technology, we’re not only improving standards of safety and efficiency but also delivering a more sustainable operation in support of the Government’s Maritime 2050 strategy. Together, we’re shaping a cleaner, smarter future for ports across the UK.”

Dr Iain Percy OBE, CEO of Artemis Technologies, commented:

We are delighted to partner with the Port of Tyne, which will see the UK’s first deployment of a fully electric foiling pilot boat. This collaboration showcases the potential of maritime innovation and technology to meet the demands of a cleaner maritime future. At Artemis Technologies, we are committed to developing high-performance, zero-emission solutions, and this partnership is a testament to what’s possible when industry leaders share a vision for transformation.

For more information on the Port of Tyne visit: www.portoftyne.co.uk

The Port of Tyne is one of the UK’s major deep-sea ports – delivering bespoke solutions for the green energy sector, supporting world leaders in the automotive transition, handling specialised bulk and containerised products, alongside delivery logistics, and assisting growing passenger numbers via the regionally important International Passenger Terminal. Overall, the Port of Tyne adds £720 million to the North East economy, supporting 11,000 jobs directly and indirectly and, as one of the UK’s largest trust ports, is entirely self-financing and runs on a commercial basis, reinvesting all its profits back into facilities along the River Tyne for the benefit of the North East and all its stakeholders.

Media contact: portoftyne@o.agency | 0191 232 5690

Based in Belfast, Northern Ireland, Artemis Technologies is at the forefront of the maritime industry’s push towards decarbonisation. With global manufacturing capabilities and a strategic office in New York, their revolutionary Artemis eFoiler® electric propulsion system, featuring a high-voltage battery energy storage system and ultra-high power density electric drivetrain, sets a new standard in maritime transport. The Artemis EF-12 Pilot boat is part of a range of 100% electric foiling vessels designed for commercial use and various applications. Other vessels from Artemis Technologies include the Artemis EF-12 Workboat, Artemis EF-24 Passenger, a 150-passenger ferry, and a luxury water taxi, the Artemis EF-12 Escape. 

For more information on the Artemis EF-12 Pilot: http://www.artemistechnologies.co.uk/ef-12-pilot/

Founded in 2017 by Dr. Iain Percy OBE, Artemis Technologies recognised the urgent need to decarbonise high-speed maritime transport and assembled a team of industry-leading experts to integrate proven technologies from yacht racing, motorsport, and aerospace. This collaborative effort led to the development of the patented Artemis eFoiler® technology, a 100% electric, hydrofoiling system that dramatically reduces drag and enhances energy efficiency.

You can learn more about Artemis Technologies by visiting our website.

Producing zero emissions in operation, Artemis eFoiler® vessels are designed to better protect our environment. The revolutionary system design of the Artemis eFoiler® includes a high-voltage marinised 800v battery energy storage system and ultra-high power density electric drivetrain, supporting growing industry demand to cut  CO2 emissions and adopt electrification solutions within maritime transport. 

The Artemis eFoiler® works at an unmatched efficiency of more than twice that of traditional Diesel engines. The design of the eFoiler® provides significant range at high-speed, whilst also reducing operational costs through substantial fuel savings. Vessels developed with eFoiler® propulsion can operate with up to 90% lower fuel costs compared with traditional ferries, with the capability of carrying up to 150 passengers.

The autopilot flight control system is a critical feature of the Artemis eFoiler® system. It is responsible for maintaining safe operation and actively stabilises our vessels in both foiling and displacement modes.

Developed on Artemis’ full motion platform simulator, the flight control system has been used extensively to develop the performance of autopilot in a variety of conditions. In foiling mode, it autonomously controls the ride height, roll and pitch of the craft, enabling the pilot to focus on heading and speed during operation.

Foiling above the water removes the usual bumpy ride and associated sea sickness. Performance of the Artemis eFoiler® technology and the 100% electric vessel has been validated during sea trials against its gasoline displacement sistership, recording 6x fewer vibrations on the body to ensure optimal protection for crew and passengers.

The minimal wake of the Artemis eFoiler® system ensures vessels can avoid local speed restrictions. This allows for high-speed operations close to shore, making Artemis eFoiler® vessels an ideal solution for traditionally busy waterways in ports and cities. The reduced wake produced by Artemis vessels helps protect our shorelines, wildlife and anchored vessels.

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