[m463]

It could be the ships they are studying are the most inefficient, and pollute the most near people. Maybe they make the most sense to electrify. It could also be the only ones that can be forced to electrify by law.

Large container ships are pretty efficient and mostly stay away from populated areas.

[PlunderBunny]

Several of the diesel ferries that operate from Auckland harbour will be replaced with electric ferries next year and in 2026. Apparently ferries in Auckland carry only 6% of public transport passengers, but account for 20% of the public transport emissions [0].

0. https://at.govt.nz/bus-train-ferry/ferry-services/low-emissi...

[nick3443]

Going fast in water takes incredible amounts of power.

[m463]

I don't know why hydrofoils aren't more popular

[AlotOfReading]

Because they're expensive and unreliable for most applications. They need more power, they increase draft, they don't tolerate debris, and they really dislike rough seas.

[lstodd]

They do fine for passenger traffic. Draft, debris and rough seas are not a problem. You need gas turbines or very unusual diesels for the power, that is the problem.