On December 3rd, the ZULU 06, the first hydrogen-powered inland vessel in France, was christened in Paris. Developed by the Sogestran group, this groundbreaking vessel supports InnoWaTr’s mission to advance sustainable waterway transport solutions. The event featured the traditional champagne bottle-breaking ceremony, performed by the vessel’s sponsor, Valérie Bouillon-Delporte, Executive Director of the Clean Hydrogen Partnership, and was attended by François Durovray, Minister Delegate for Transport.
A Symbol of European Innovation
The ZULU 06 represents a transformative step in the decarbonization of inland waterways—a key focus of the InnoWaTr project. Valérie Bouillon-Delporte’s role as sponsor highlights the importance of European partnerships like the Clean Hydrogen Partnership in driving technological advancements for greener mobility.
Minister François Durovray emphasized the vessel’s broader significance:
"With the christening of the ZULU 06, we witness a major leap forward for inland waterway transport and the energy transition in France. This vessel embodies our dedication to sustainable, innovative, and decarbonized mobility. It showcases our ability to balance logistical performance with environmental stewardship. This project exemplifies the power of European cooperation and public-private synergy in achieving green, local, and durable mobility. It marks a pivotal step in decarbonizing transport and signals our determination to make our transportation systems more eco-friendly and resilient for the challenges of tomorrow."
A Shared Vision for the Future
The ZULU 06’s hydrogen propulsion technology reflects InnoWaTr’s vision of using innovation to tackle the challenges of decarbonizing waterway transport. The event brought together key partners and stakeholders, who also shared their perspectives:
- Cécile Avezard, Director General of Voies Navigables de France
- Delphine Bürkli, representing Valérie Pécresse, President of the Île-de-France Region
- Philippe Boucly, President of France Hydrogène
Collaboration Driving Change
The vessel is the result of six years of intensive research under the European Flagships H2020 Project, supported by the modernization and innovation fund led by Voies Navigables de France. Co-financing was provided by ADEME and the Île-de-France Region.
This achievement demonstrates how collaborative innovation can address the dual challenges of climate change and sustainable logistics. By showcasing the potential of hydrogen technology, the ZULU 06 strengthens Europe’s shared commitment to advancing a greener future while providing a model for sustainable inland navigation.
Photo's made by: Gauthier Mignot
