The “world’s first” autonomous electric ferry, MF Estelle, has completed a journey between two main islands in central Stockholm, demonstrating the potential of driverless, sustainable transport.
The 12m-long MF Estelle, owned by Norwegian shipping company Torghatten Midt, is described as a vessel with “sustainability at its core”, built from carbon fibre at the Brødrene Aa shipyard in Hyen, on Norway’s west coast, which helps to reduce weight and thus optimise energy use.
The ship can carry up to 25 passengers, is equipped with four pod thrusters and a 188-kwh battery, and operates at a speed of 6 knots (7 MPH) for up to 15 hours a day. In addition, it is equipped with an unmanned system developed by Zea buz, as well as an energy system powered by onboard solar panels.
So far, there is only one safety operator on board to ensure the comfort and safety of passengers and to take over if needed. But over time, the “MF Estelle” will eventually be fully autonomous and monitored by land.
