Alternative Fuel Vehicles (AFVs) generally include:
a) Hybrid and all-electric vehicles that have batteries.
b) Vehicles that use liquefied and compressed gaseous fuels (e.g., LPG, natural gas).
According to the European Maritime Safety Agency (EMSA) guidelines, the key safety requirements for AFVs onboard are:
-Vehicles must comply with the International Maritime Dangerous Goods (IMDG) Code provisions.
-Vehicles suspected of having damaged or defective batteries are only allowed if the battery is removed.
-Vehicles must be free from any fuel or gas leakages.
-AFVs must be stowed to allow direct access for safety patrols.
-Charging of electric vehicles (EVs) onboard Ro-Ro passenger ships is generally not allowed, except when moving a vehicle with a flat battery to enable unloading of others.
Battery charge guidelines for electric vehicles:
-The battery state of charge should be between 20% and 50%. If your vehicle only has a Full-to-Empty gauge, the charge level should correspond approximately to this range.
Special regulations for Greece (effective from April 2024):
-For all-electric and plug-in hybrid vehicles, batteries must not be charged above 40% of total capacity.
-For vehicles using LPG, natural gas, or other alternative fuels, fuel tanks must not exceed 50% capacity.
-Battery temperature checks may be required for electric vehicles.
Because rules can vary, always check with your ferry operator for the most current terms and conditions regarding AFVs.
For more detailed official guidance, visit the EMSA website.