Latest news with #sustainabletransport

ABC News
6 hours ago
- Business
- ABC News
Danish operator orders two electric ferries from Incat amid plans to expand the Tasmanian company
Tasmania-based shipbuilder Incat has been commissioned to design and build two new electric ferries for Danish operator Molslinjen, to run on one of Europe's busiest routes. Incat said the order for the two 129-metre, 45-megawatt vessels formed the largest individual export contract for a manufactured good in Tasmania's history. The cost of the ferries has not be disclosed. Each ferry will each carry up to 1,483 passengers and 500 cars, and will operate at speeds over of 40 knots across the Kattegat Sea between Jutland and Zealand in Denmark. Incat founder and chairman Robert Clifford said the order marked "a turning point not just for Incat but the for the global maritime industry". "This project aligns perfectly with our strategic vision. "As global demand for sustainable ferries accelerates, our expanded facilities will ensure we're ready to lead the way in both innovation and volume." Incat plans to expand its production facilities in Hobart's Prince of Wales Bay, as well as build a new facility further up the Derwent River. It aims to double its production capacity and workforce over the next three years. The Hobart-based company was established in 1977, and has since become an industry leader in building lightweight catamarans. More recently, it has branched out into electric passenger ferries. Incat managing director Craig Clifford, who also serves as the honorary consul for Denmark in Tasmania, said the partnership reflected "a shared commitment to the green transition". The order follows the launch in May of Incat's latest vessel HSC China Zorrilla — the world's largest electric vehicle. Launched in May, the ferry — also known as Hull 096 — has the largest electric battery ever installed on a ship, and will run on a roughly 55-kilometre route across the Rio de la Plata for operator Buquebus, between the Argentinian capital of Buenos Aires and Montevideo in Uruguay. The ferry has the capacity to carry over 2,000 passengers and is equipped with more than 5,000 battery modules stacked together, weighing a total of 280 tonnes and delivering 43-megawatt hours. It was described as the "future of sea shipping" by Mr Clifford, and a milestone in the industry's bid to decarbonise. Electric maritime vessels are dependent on short journeys and ports with adequate charging infrastructure and renewable energy resources. To address the lack of charging infrastructure globally, Incat is also building a diesel-electric hybrid ferry which will be designed so that it can be retrofitted to become fully electric. Mr Clifford told ABC Breakfast he anticipated demand for electric ferries to grow. "There's not the slightest doubt that 1,000 ships are needed in the very near future, electric ships, to replace the fossil fuel ships — no question of that," he said. "We can do it in Tasmania; it won't be without challenges. Mr Clifford said the Hobart shipbuilder was uniquely placed to meet demand for large electric ferries compared to other international major shipbuilders due to his team's specialisation in working with aluminium. "Aluminium and electricity go together because … a lightweight ship takes a lot less power and electricity is in scarce supply at all the ports." "So, the ship that takes the least electricity will get the orders. "We should be able to bring out at least four ships a year," Mr Clifford said. Incat said early-stage construction of the two new ferries would begin in the coming months, and it aimed to deliver them in late 2027.
Yahoo
2 days ago
- Automotive
- Yahoo
Major Aussie e-bike 'licence trial' looms amid crackdown on misuse
E-bikes are a hotly debated point of contention, with uptake soaring around the country as their popularity rises. Supporters argue they offer a sustainable, efficient alternative to cars, especially for younger commuters drawn to their affordability and convenience. But critics point to concerns around speed, reckless use, and — when it comes to rideshare fleets operated by international companies like Lime, Beam, and Neuron — a lack of clear accountability in the event of accidents or misuse. With teenagers among the most frequent users of e-bikes, New South Wales is proposing to launch a new program targeting schoolkids and aimed at promoting the safe use of e-bikes. Launched by Bicycle NSW, the Student Bicycle Licence Scheme is due to commence in some schools "around mid to late September". Speaking to Yahoo News Australia, the CEO of Bicycle NSW, Peter McLean, said the trial is all about "education and awareness". While councils may support and encourage the scheme, the decision to participate and how the program is implemented will rest with individual schools. Some schools in Sutherland and Newcastle have already expressed interest in the trial, and there is hope that Sydney Northern Beaches schools will join as well. Further details about participating schools and the broader rollout are expected to become clearer as the trial progresses later in the year. "[The trial] focuses on a number of the basic rules for bicycle users, but also on etiquette and respect," McLean told Yahoo. "It also includes helpful knowledge around bicycle security and equipment. "We are beginning the trial with schools in Sutherland and Newcastle, and hopefully Northern Beaches, as well. We will hopefully test this with a few students in schools later this term and then more schools in Term 4 of this year." How would an e-bike licence scheme work? The program includes a simple online assessment designed to confirm that students understand fundamental bike safety, road rules, and appropriate riding behaviour. Those who complete it would receive a digital licence featuring council-branded recognition. Schools will be allowed to decide how the scheme fits within their community, for instance, whether to require the licence for students who cycle to school. Northern Beaches Council Mayor Sue Heins introduced the idea during a council meeting on July 15, citing its low cost, and adding that, "at a state level, there is currently no consistent bicycle education or awareness programs" for schools. Councillors voted to participate in the scheme, meaning they agreed to support and promote the initiative across the local area, including working with schools to encourage uptake and reporting on participation levels. But on Monday, Northern Beaches confirmed to Yahoo it had paused on the idea, pending a rescission motion — a formal request to revoke or reconsider a previous decision, which will be discussed at the next Council meeting on August 19. But elsewhere, McLean said many regions have expressed sharp interest. "I have discussed it with councils in the Central West of NSW, for example, and they are very keen," he said. "We just want to make sure we develop the program thoroughly first before we broaden the offering to others." Why are e-bikes controversial in Australia? E-bikes have surged in popularity across Australia, especially among young people who see them as a fast, convenient, and eco-friendly alternative to cars or public transport. When used responsibly, they provide an accessible way for people to cover longer distances with less effort, encouraging more active and sustainable lifestyles. Elderly clash with youths on e-bike in 'battle of the beaches' Recurring e-bike complaint 'disgusting' Aussies Little-known rule could see you lose licence without driving a car Properly handled, e-bikes improve urban mobility by bridging the gap between walking, cycling, and public transport, making it easier for people to get around quickly and efficiently without relying on cars. This not only benefits individual users but also contributes positively to overall community health and the environment. But the rise in popularity hasn't come without controversy. Concerns around safety, speed and rule compliance are growing, especially as more inexperienced or underage riders take to the roads and footpaths. Local councils have fielded complaints about e-bikes being dumped haphazardly, ridden recklessly, or used in places where they're not allowed. The issue is especially complicated when the bikes are owned by international rideshare companies, which operate under different agreements in each city. In the event of an accident, accountability can become murky, leaving councils and communities to debate who should bear responsibility. In Australia, e-bikes are generally legal nationwide, but each state and territory has its own specific rules around power limits, speed, age restrictions, and where they can be ridden. Do you have a story tip? Email: newsroomau@ You can also follow us on Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, Twitter and YouTube.


Arabian Business
5 days ago
- Business
- Arabian Business
Egypt High Speed Rail to use 3,000 Hitachi ACs to cool its 21 stations
Egypt's High-Speed Rail (HSR) project has awarded a major Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning (HVAC) contract to a partnership between Johnson Controls-Hitachi Air Conditioning Middle East and Africa (MEA), and Elsewedy Machinery. Hitachi will supply more than 3,000 high-efficiency indoor Variable Refrigerant Flow (VRF) units, to be deployed across 21 stations. The units will be manufactured at its facility in Barcelona, Spain. Egypt rail project: Key HVAC updates The solution delivers a total cooling capacity of more than 11,000 Refrigeration Tons (RT) and features Eurovent certification and high-ambient resilience, tailored to Egypt's climate and transport sector requirements. Egypt's HSR links major cities and ports, setting new benchmarks in sustainable transport development across the country. Spanning 660 kilometers, the HSR will connect Ain Sokhna, Alamein, Cairo, Alexandria, 6th of October City, and other key hubs across Egypt. Once operational, the system will serve 21 stations, transporting over one million passengers and 8,500 tons of cargo daily. The project is designed to dramatically reduce travel times and support faster, more efficient logistics nationwide. Ahmed Aqel, general manager, Johnson Controls–Hitachi Air Conditioning MEA, commented: 'This mega project represents a pivotal advancement in Egypt's national infrastructure agenda. It reflects the country's vision for modern, efficient, and climate-conscious transportation. 'We are proud to deliver our advanced HVAC systems to a development of this scale and significance, working alongside Elsewedy Machinery to ensure technical precision, operational excellence, and long-term impact.' Elsewedy Machinery – the trading arm of Elsewedy Electric Group – will oversee the complete scope of HVAC delivery, including supply, installation, copper piping network, startup, commissioning, and after-sales service. 'Our partnership with Elsewedy Electric brings together global HVAC innovation and local execution expertise,' Aqel added. 'By integrating high-performance European-manufactured VRF systems into Egypt's high-speed rail infrastructure, we are supporting a new benchmark in sustainable, large-scale transport solutions.' The high-speed rail project reflects Egypt's forward-thinking leadership and ambition for sustainable growth. The project stands as a defining example of infrastructure that drives national transformation.


Zawya
5 days ago
- Business
- Zawya
Elsewedy, regional Johnson Controls–Hitachi win contract for Egypt's high-speed rail megaproject
Cairo - Johnson Controls–Hitachi Air Conditioning Middle East and Africa (Johnson Controls–Hitachi Air Conditioning MEA) along with Elsewedy Machinery, the trading arm of Elsewedy Electric Group, won a major HVAC contract for the flagship High-Speed Rail (HSR) project in Egypt. The partnership will result in Hitachi supplying more than 3,000 high-efficiency indoor variable refrigerant flow (VRF) units that are manufactured at its facility in Spain's Barcelona for the 660-kilometer HRS corridor, according to a press release. The solution delivers a total cooling capacity exceeding 11,000 Refrigeration Tons (RT) and features Eurovent certification and high-ambient resilience, tailored to Egypt's climate and transport sector requirements. Serving as a national infrastructure milestone that links major cities and ports and sets new benchmarks in sustainable transport development across the country, the HSR line will connect Ain Sokhna, Alamein, Cairo, Alexandria, 6th of October City, and other key hubs across Egypt. Once operational, the system will serve 21 stations, transporting over 1 million passengers and 8,500 tons of cargo daily. The project is designed to dramatically reduce travel times and support faster, more efficient logistics nationwide. General Manager at Johnson Controls–Hitachi Air Conditioning MEA, Ahmed Aqel, said: 'This megaproject represents a pivotal advancement in Egypt's national infrastructure agenda. It reflects the country's vision for modern, efficient, and climate-conscious transportation.' Aqel added: 'We are proud to deliver our advanced HVAC systems to a development of this scale and significance, working alongside Elsewedy Machinery to ensure technical precision, operational excellence, and long-term impact.' Elsewedy Machinery will oversee the complete scope of HVAC delivery, including supply, installation, copper piping network, start-up, commissioning, and after-sales service. The General Manager noted: 'Our partnership with Elsewedy Electric brings together global HVAC innovation and local execution expertise.' Aqel concluded: 'By integrating high-performance European-manufactured VRF systems into Egypt's high-speed rail infrastructure, we are supporting a new benchmark in sustainable, large-scale transport solutions.' This high-speed rail project reflects Egypt's forward-thinking leadership and ambition for sustainable growth. The megaproject stands as a defining example of infrastructure that drives national transformation. By enhancing regional connectivity and supporting more efficient logistics, this development will have a lasting economic and social impact.


The Guardian
6 days ago
- Business
- The Guardian
London-Berlin trains will be on the drawing board of UK-German rail taskforce
Plans for possible direct trains from London to Berlin will be drawn up by a joint UK-German taskforce, reigniting hopes for better rail connections across Europe. The partnership, announced as part of the bilateral treaty to be signed by Keir Starmer and Friedrich Merz, could eventually lead to direct rail services between the two countries after previous plans for London-Frankfurt trains hit the buffers. The Department for Transport described the agreement as a 'significant step forward', with direct trains the most eyecatching part of a commitment to collaborate in enhancing sustainable transport links and mobility. Germany has also agreed to allow some arriving UK airline passengers to use passport e-gates at its airports by the end of August, the Cabinet Office said. Since Brexit, UK travellers have needed to queue to have their passports manually stamped, rather than use automated gates, at EU airports. A joint taskforce will bring together transport experts from Germany and the UK to tackle the issues that have blocked such services in the past, including commercial, safety and technical requirements, and, not least, border arrangements. The transport secretary, Heidi Alexander, raised the possibility of visiting Checkpoint Charlie 'direct from the comfort of a train', adding that the government was 'determined to put Britain at the heart of a better-connected continent'. She said: 'The Brandenburg Gate, the Berlin Wall and Checkpoint Charlie – in just a matter of years, rail passengers in the UK could be able to visit these iconic sights direct from the comfort of a train, thanks to a direct connection linking London and Berlin. 'This landmark agreement – part of a new treaty the prime minister will sign with Chancellor Merz today – has the potential to fundamentally change how millions of people travel between our two countries, offering a faster, more convenient and significantly greener alternative to flying. 'The economic potential is enormous. A direct rail link would support the creation of jobs and strengthen the vital trade links that underpin our economic relationship with Germany. British businesses will have better access to European markets, whilst German companies will find it easier to invest and operate in the UK.' The deal follows a similar memorandum of understanding signed with Switzerland in May to explore direct services. Sign up to Business Today Get set for the working day – we'll point you to all the business news and analysis you need every morning after newsletter promotion While direct trains to new European countries may be at least a decade away, the international train operator Eurostar has spoken of its ambition to open new routes to Frankfurt and Geneva. Other potential rival operators, including Virgin, are hoping to start cross-Channel services. Opening new routes has been difficult due to commercial viability, different track and train systems, and border requirements and station capacity. Eurostar's longest direct route to date, London to Amsterdam, has had to overcome numerous difficulties, largely linked to border security and passport control, since its delayed inception in 2018. The demand for direct London to Berlin trains is unclear. Currently passengers can travel between the UK and German capitals in around 10 hours, changing in Brussels and Cologne.