Hosted by
Artemis Technologies CEO, Dr Iain Percy OBE, and Red Funnel CEO, Fran Collins,
the exclusive shoreside event welcomed over 75 industry leaders, media
representatives and stakeholders aboard the 12-metre demonstration vessel,
offering guests the opportunity to experience the same clean maritime
technology which will power the Artemis EF-24 Passenger ferry. The 100% electric Artemis EF-24 Passenger will join
Red Funnel’s Hi-Speed fleet in 2026, in a significant step toward decarbonising
maritime travel.
The 100%
electric Artemis EF-24 Passenger ferry is designed to carry up to 150
passengers, creating zero emissions in operation. Using advanced hydrofoil technology to lift its hull out of the water,
it significantly reduces drag and wake. Once in service, it is expected to save
up to 3,700 tonnes of CO₂e each year compared with conventional high-speed
ferries – eliminating local emissions while offering a quieter, smoother ride.
Fran Collins, Red Funnel CEO, said, “This moment has
been a long time in the making. Six years ago, we made a bold commitment to a
cleaner, greener future, and today, we were thrilled to share a glimpse of that
future with so many guests. It was wonderful to see and hear such incredibly
positive feedback from those who joined us.“Our partnership with Artemis
Technologies marks a pioneering step forward, not just for Red Funnel but for
sustainable maritime transport across the Solent. This isn’t just a new vessel;
it’s the beginning of a new era – defined by zero-emission technology, a
smoother passenger experience, and a shared ambition to decarbonise ferry
travel. The road ahead will bring
learning and challenges, but that’s what it means to be brave, to innovate, and
to lead. Together with Artemis, we’re proud to be doing something truly
different.”
Dr Percy, Artemis Technologies CEO, commented, “Our
collaboration with Red Funnel highlights a shared commitment to upholding
global maritime sustainability standards and shaping a cleaner future for all. The Artemis EF-24 Passenger ferry
represents a major leap forward in our mission to transform the maritime
industry and future-proof our oceans and waterways.
“We have combined cutting-edge design with advanced
hydrofoil technology to create a vessel that not only reduces emissions but
also enhances performance and comfort. Together, we are establishing a new
benchmark towards a more responsible and resilient maritime industry.”
Next steps
include crew training using Artemis Technologies’ state-of-the-art simulator
for Red Funnel’s high-speed team.