DB Schenker plans zero-emission autonomous container feeder

A pre-study agreement has been signed, and DB Schenker is cooperating with vessel designers Naval Dynamics, Kongsberg and Massterly. The new vessel will replace the traditional feeder vessels utilized along this stretch of the Norwegian coastline. The benefits will include zero emissions, faster and more efficient transport, and reduced traffic on roads.

The new pure-electric short-sea container feeder leverages the Naval Dynamics’ NDS AutoBarge 250 concept developed in partnership with Kongsberg and Massterly.

The vessel will operate between Ekornes’ own port, at Ikornnes, to the port of Ålesund which serves the main ocean freight ports in Europe, completing the 43km (23NM) voyage within three hours, at a speed of 7.7 knots. The vessel is 50 meters long and can carry 300 deadweight tonnes cargo and is designed from keel up to be fit for purpose with respect to autonomous and zero emission operation. The vessel aims to run un-crewed but supervised from Massterly’s remote operation centre which is staffed with certified navigators and naval engineers.

The planned two-way data communication solution between the vessel and the centre is expected to be another game-changer in the sea freight sector.

Kongsberg is currently involved in several fully electric and autonomous vessel operations, including Yara Birkeland and ASKO.

Knut Eriksmoen, CEO Norway, DB Schenker, said: “We are delighted to further reinforce an already strong relationship with our customer Ekornes. This unique project will mark another important step towards greener supply chains and pays into our overall sustainability agenda in ocean freight. We are ambitiously taking the lead here with our cooperation partners.”

Roger Lunde, CEO, Ekornes, said: “We’re continuously working towards our goal of becoming the leading global sustainable manufacturer of premium furniture. With this landmark project, we will meet our sustainability targets by using the most innovative technology available. Using the autonomous electric container feeder for direct pick-ups of our Stressless products from our own quay at Ikornnes means that our total carbon footprint will be reduced significantly. We will also gain better control over, and a greater flexibility of, our own logistics.”