Electric and hybrid cars always require an accompanying person and cannot board ferries with a battery charge higher than 40% for safety concerns. Gasoline-powered vehicles cannot drive on more than half their tank capacity, which is also a problem for those using alternative fuels.
EV charging becomes a challenge for travellers due to insufficient charging facilities on Greek islands and ports, preventing recharging after a voyage.
The European Maritime Safety Agency (EMSA) and the International Union of Marine Insurance (IUMI) have imposed strict regulations, terms, and conditions to reduce the risks associated with these vehicles due to the concerning frequency of incidents involving them during maritime transportation around the world. These incidents can include minor explosions or battery ignition. Some argue that stricter rules are necessary in the wake of maritime tragedies like the ferry fire on the Fremantle Highway last year.
Greek law is in accord with these demands, and ferry companies have just received instructions from the Greek Ministry of Shipping and Island Policy to move AFVs via coastal shipping. AFVs include vehicles that run on compressed or liquefied gas, those that are entirely electric, or those that use rechargeable hybrid powertrains with accumulators (batteries).
According to the ministry, “The guidelines were formulated based on a European Maritime Safety Agency (EMSA) study and international experience, as the issue of transporting AFVs by ships has only recently garnered attention from the global shipping community.” Therefore, monitoring the battery temperature and not charging it more than 40% of its entire capacity in EVs or rechargeable hybrids is essential. Tank capacity for alternative fuel should be at most over 50%.
An additional loading restriction applies to AFVs that show signs of damage to their fuel systems, tanks, or batteries. The owner is entirely responsible for ensuring the vehicle is in good repair and that the fuel system, tanks, and accumulators are undamaged. Shipping businesses can use whatever methods they consider suitable to confirm this.
