Zero-Emission Corridors: ZEM AS and the Industrialisation of Canada’s Electric Waterborne Transport
OSLO / VICTORIA — The selection of ZEM AS as the system integrator for a new fully electric water taxi project in Canada marks a significant milestone in the North American maritime energy transition. Under the leadership of CEO Jonathan Sørbye, ZEM is leveraging its European track record of 63 MW of installed battery capacity to anchor the electrification of Canadian urban waterways.
This project serves as a practical application of the Canadian Electric Propulsion Acceleration Coalition (CEPAC) vision, which aims to establish a domestic supply chain for zero-emission vessels. By integrating ZEM’s high-performance battery technology into a Canadian-manufactured hull, the project demonstrates how international expertise can catalyze local industrial growth.
A Milestone in International Growth
"This project reinforces two things: Confidence in ZEM’s battery technology and system integration expertise... and the importance of strong local partnerships." | Jonathan Sørbye, CEO of ZEM AS
Engineering the Urban Catamaran
The vessel, identified as a fully electric water taxi, is a zero-emission catamaran designed for the rigorous demands of urban passenger transit. Unlike traditional diesel ferries, this boat relies on a high-density Lithium-ion Battery Energy Storage System (ESS) to provide silent, vibration-free propulsion.
The Role of the System Integrator
As the system integrator, ZEM AS is responsible for the vessel's technical "nervous system." This includes the battery modules, master control software, and the power distribution units required to manage high-frequency charging cycles. ZEM’s systems are designed for high energy density, allowing the catamaran to maintain a lightweight profile essential for efficiency in urban "stop-and-start" water taxi operations.
Production and the CEPAC Framework
The production of this water taxi aligns directly with CEPAC’s strategic mandate to decarbonize Canada's passenger fleets by fostering a "made-in-Canada" solution. While ZEM provides the integrated power solution, the collaboration with local partners ensures that the boat's design meets Canadian maritime safety standards and can withstand the varied environmental conditions of the British Columbia coast or the Great Lakes.
Expanding the North American Frontier
For ZEM, a subsidiary of Volvo Penta, this project is the first major step in a broader North American expansion strategy. By successfully deploying a fully electric passenger vessel in Canada, ZEM is positioning its technology as the blueprint for other municipalities looking to transition away from fossil-fuel-dependent public transport.
📊 The Strategic Numbers: ZEM & Canadian Electrification
🚢 Fully Electric Catamaran – The vessel type selected for Canada’s new urban water taxi fleet
⚡ Zero-Emission – Total elimination of diesel exhaust and noise pollution in the operational corridor
🔋 63 MW – Total global installed battery capacity delivered by ZEM to date
🌍 North America – The primary growth market for ZEM’s 2026 international strategy
🇨🇦 CEPAC – The coalition driving the domestic manufacturing and adoption of these electric vessels
