An Auckland firm hopes to be taking orders next year for a carbon-fibre, battery-powered commuter ferry it is developing for a global market.
EV Maritime has been spun-off from established boat-builder McMullen and Wing, with the aim of becoming an early leader globally in electric fast ferries.
Auckland’s Fullers’ Ferries has invested $300,000 in the firm’s research and development over the past year, making an advance payment on a first order.

EV Maritime CEO Michael Eaglen at the McMullen and Wing boatyard in Mt Wellington, Auckland
EV Maritime said the timing was perfect, with Auckland’s need to overhaul its ferry fleet, combined with the evolution of battery technology and the increasing focus on tackling climate change.
“We do have a vision of carving out a meaningful niche globally in zero-emission fast ferries,”
said Michael Eaglen, who shifted from being the chief executive at McMullen and Wing, to co-found and head the ferry project as a joint venture.