A new hybrid vessel, the El Escudo, has commenced operations at the Port of Los Angeles, thanks to a collaboration between the Port, Harbor Breeze Cruises, the California Air Resources Board (CARB), and the Port of Long Beach. This 350-passenger craft incorporates cutting-edge emission-reduction technologies and will primarily serve the San Pedro Bay ports.
The El Escudo features a parallel hybrid propulsion system, allowing it to operate in fully electric, diesel, or hybrid modes. It surpasses U.S. EPA Tier 4 and CARB emissions standards, with plans to operate at least 30% of the time in zero-emission mode, and potentially achieving 100% zero-emission during specific trips.
The development of this vessel was part of the Los Angeles Marine Emission Reduction (LA MER) Project, backed by a $31 million CARB grant and $30 million in partner funds. The project aims to test various emission-reduction technologies, with projections to cut over 60 tons of emissions annually.
Additionally, both the Port of Los Angeles and the Port of Long Beach have pledged financial support for technology evaluation studies and zero-emission excursions, further advancing sustainable maritime initiatives.
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