Schottel to equip CMAL electric ferry newbuilds
The ferries will be equipped with four 100 L units, two fore and two aft (Source: Schottel)
Schottel will supply rudder propellers for seven new electric double-ended ferries ordered by Scotland’s state-owned Caledonian Maritime Assets Limited. The vessels, to be built by Poland’s Remontowa Shipbuilding with a first delivery in 2027, will operate on nine west coast routes and form a core part of CMAL’s small-vessel renewal.
Jim Anderson, director of vessels at CMAL, said: “For the new Loch-class ferries, our focus was on achieving excellent manoeuvrability, redundancy and high efficiency … these vessels must deliver maximum reliability. With Schottel’s modern propulsion systems, we are confident that all these requirements are fully met.”
Each ferry will use four SRP 100 L units. The L-Drive configuration removes the upper gearbox to reduce losses and cut maintenance, while lowering vibration and noise. Meanwhile, Schottel’s SDC nozzle and ProAnode technology are intended to improve free-running performance. Fast-reacting azimuth steering is specified to match local weather conditions, alongside Schottel’s MariHub for condition-based maintenance.
Six ferries will each carry 150 passengers and 24 cars, with one larger vessel for 250 passengers and 16 cars. With overnight charging, the battery-electric vessels are designed for zero-emission operation and will support CMAL’s wider programme of fleet and port upgrades.
