🚢 The world's largest electric ferry charges in six minutes - and reduces emissions

🚢 The world's largest electric ferry charges in six minutes - and reduces emissions

Electrification of a previously diesel-electric ferry reduces CO2 emissions annually by about 28,000 tons. The transition to fully electric operation is expected to be cost-effective within eight years, and the ferry is estimated to operate many more years than that.

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  • Electrification of a previously diesel-electric ferry reduces CO2 emissions annually by about 28,000 tons.
  • The ferry charges on average in six minutes.
  • The transition to fully electric operation is expected to be cost-effective within eight years, and the ferry is estimated to operate many more years than that.

Conversion to electricity

A large ferry previously powered by diesel has been converted to use only electricity, making it the largest of its kind to undergo this change.

The extensive adaptation includes an advanced fast charging system that receives power from both Sweden and Denmark. With this system, the ferry can charge for nine minutes in Sweden and five minutes in Denmark at 10 kilovolts and 600 amperes.

The ferry's drive system includes advanced lithium-ion batteries that provide a total of 4.1 megawatt-hours and are placed in four container-like modules on top of the ferry.

This setup converts 10.7 kilovolts of alternating current to 750 volts of alternating current, which is then converted to direct current, enhancing its operation and extending the range for various operating modes, primarily in battery operation.

Environment and economy

The electrification of the ferry reduces annual carbon dioxide emissions by about 28,000 tons, positively contributing to the local environment. The transition from diesel to electricity has also led to an increase in operational efficiency by about 25 to 30 percent. This demonstrates both an environmental and functional improvement.

The investment pays off in eight years, but the ferry is expected to operate significantly longer than that.

Green express lane and a smoother journey

On the ferry, there is a so-called "green express lane." This allows electric cars to go ahead in line. For those waiting for the ferry, fast charging is also offered on land.

For passengers who previously experienced seasickness from exhaust and noise, these ferries now offer a cleaner and quieter journey, with reduced vibrations and no exhaust smell.

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