Deal signed for self-driving ferries in Norway

Norwegian ferry operator, Torghatten, and technology firm, Kongsberg Maritime, have signed a contract to develop self-driving ferries between Trondheim and locations on the Fosen peninsular.

A range of Kongsberg technologies will be installed on the ferries, including auto-docking, auto-crossing, collision avoidance, and situational awareness capabilities. The systems are expected to reduce fuel consumption, improve safety and punctuality, and optimise staffing on the vessels in accordance with Norwegian regulations.

Torgatten’s Technology director, Jan-Egil Wagnild, noted the challenges relating to recruitment in the sector. In addition to improving safety and scheduling, the new systems will take routine operational tasks away from crews, enabling them to focus on other issues.

“We have several industrial environments in Norway that are at the forefront internationally in the field of maritime autonomy,” Wagnild stated. “Now there’s another platform where the key players can test new technologies in operational conditions and commercialise these solutions.”

Kongsberg Maritime’s senior vice president, Remote & Autonomous Solutions, Pål André Eriksen, said: “The basic technology is already in place with us, but for it to be optimised and further developed, we are dependent on rolling it out on commercial vessels and building an industry around what can be commercialised for a global market.

“We are very optimistic about the project and look forward to it giving a positive boost to the maritime authorities’ work to adapt the regulations. This will facilitate a smoother development of the autonomy industry in Norway and create new opportunities for growth and innovation also beyond Norway’s borders,” he added.