Rolls-Royce power for Norwegian ferry

The new ferry, to be built by Fiskerstrand yard, near Ålesund, is designed to run on 100% bio diesel, reducing the environmental footprint in areas where electrical shore side power is not available when the vessel is in port.

Rolls-Royce will supply the main propulsion, AZP85, which it says will help give the ferry improved steering stability and manoeuvrability. The thrusters feature full feathering propellers so the operator can reduce the amount of engine power needed during crossings. This will help reduce fuel consumption and also increase the overall efficiency of the vessels.

The double-ended ferry will commute back and forth between ferry quays along the rugged Norwegian coastline, and is a vital connector in the country’s road infrastructure.

It has been designed to allow for future upgrades to a hybrid, plug-in hybrid or fully electrical battery powered ferry. This will give the owner flexibility on where the ferry can operate in the future.

The contract includes an option to supply propellers for two additional ferries.