10157604Bridge to Zero - The future Torpoint Ferry (World's Busiest Chain Ferry)ClosedCollaborative R&DInnovate UKSince 1791, a ferry has connected Torpoint and Devonport across the River Tamar. Today, that service is home to the **world's biggest and busiest chain ferry crossing**, carrying **up to 2 million vehicles and 150,000 foot passengers each year**. These iconic ferries aren't just a lifeline---they're a vital artery linking the Rame Peninsula in Southeast Cornwall with the city of Plymouth, saving travellers a 28-mile round trip with a swift, three-mile crossing. However, after two decades of continuous operation, the current fleet is nearing the end of its design life. It's time for a transformation---and that's where **Tamar 2050** comes in. Launched in 2022, **Tamar 2050 is a bold program of transformation and modernisation**. Its mission: to lead the way in **decarbonising ferry travel in the UK**, starting with the Torpoint Ferries. Backed by the Tamar Bridge & Torpoint Ferry Joint Committee, the project is exploring future-proof solutions---whether retrofitting existing vessels or designing new ones---to cut emissions while keeping the ferries running 24/7\. This isn't easy. The Tamar's strong tides, long slipways, and the ferry's tight turnaround times make it a unique challenge. Charging times are limited, yet the demand never stops. What's more, these are hurdles that many UK coastal operators face too. Tamar 2050 is working to overcome them, aiming to deliver practical, cost-effective solutions that could set a blueprint for **green marine transport across the country**. From tackling capital and operational costs to innovating charging systems and vessel design, the project is paving the way for a cleaner, smarter ferry service---**starting right here on the River Tamar**.