Zero-emission electric ferry announced for Solent

The Red Funnel Artemis EF-24 Passenger ferry will lift out of the water

A zero-emission, electric, high-speed ferry will be transporting passengers across the Solent from next year.

Red Funnel said the vessel would serve the route between Southampton and West Cowes, on the Isle of Wight, from late 2025.

The fully accessible ferry is to be powered by electricity from renewable sources, cutting air pollution and noise, according to the operator.

It said hydrofoil technology will also lift it out of the water, providing a smoother journey for passengers.

Red Funnel CEO Fran Collins said sea trials would take place in the coming months

Red Funnel has partnered with maritime technology company Artemis Technologies (ATL) to introduce the Artemis EF-24 Passenger which it says will save up to 3,700 tonnes of CO2 a year.

Red Funnel CEO Fran Collins said: "We are delighted to reach this exciting milestone as part of our journey to decarbonise our fleet.

"We will be working closely with ATL over the coming months for testing and sea trials, including bespoke training of our high-speed team, so that we're ready to add Artemis EF-24 Passenger to our fleet next year."

According to the ATL website, the Artemis EF-24 Passenger can carry 150 people, has a top speed of 36kts (41mph) and can be charged in less than 60 minutes.

The Southampton to Cowes route is currently served by Red Jets 6 and 7.

Red Funnel described the EF-24 as an "industry first", saying it was one of three ferry operators who were "early adopters" of the technology.