Revolutionary Autonomous Charging Tower to Transform Ferry Operations in Sweden

Zinus, a Norwegian technology company, in collaboration with METS Technology, is poised to revolutionize the charging process for Swedish road ferries through the implementation of an advanced autonomous charging tower in Finnsbo, Sweden. The main objective of this cutting-edge charging tower is to provide efficient and seamless charging facilities for ferries managed by Trafikverket, the Swedish Transport Administration.

The autonomous charging tower, scheduled to be operational by 2026, will be strategically positioned near Lysekil to cater to vessels operating on the road ferry route between Finnsbo and Skår. Once operational, the charging tower will eliminate the need for manual mooring and connection by crew members, enabling ferry operators to charge at an impressive rate of up to three megawatts while connected, a capacity equivalent to that of 12 quick chargers for cars.

Zinus will supply the charging cable management system for the charging tower, designed to automatically position itself in response to the ferry’s location and engage the charging connector through a fully automated process. Meanwhile, METS Technology will be responsible for the design and construction of the charging tower.

According to Ronny Olson, sales manager at Zinus, the company has worked closely with METS to ensure that the system for autonomous connection for charging was selected as the preferred system by Trafikverket. He also expressed delight in being able to provide the best solution for the ferry operator. This partnership demonstrates the commitment of both companies to innovation and excellence in the transportation sector.

Trafikverket’s electrification efforts, in line with their Vision 45 plan for a climate-neutral ferry service by 2045, have been gaining momentum. The installation of the autonomous charging tower is expected to play a pivotal role in accelerating the realization of this ambitious goal, showcasing the organization’s commitment to sustainable and eco-friendly ferry operations.

Endre Eidsvik, CEO of Zinus, expressed enthusiasm for enabling efficient autonomous charging for the growing number of ferry routes in Sweden, highlighting the innovative features of the new solution, including a multi-axial connection that ensures precise connection at any tidal range, as well as a larger longitudinal docking range. The implementation of this groundbreaking technology by Trafikverket further solidifies Sweden’s position as a pioneer in sustainable transport solutions.

This groundbreaking project represents a significant step towards the future of sustainable ferry operations in Sweden and sets a new standard for eco-friendly maritime transportation. As the project moves closer to its completion, the impact of the autonomous charging tower will not only be felt in Sweden but also worldwide, inspiring other countries to embrace innovative and sustainable transport solutions.

+ There are no comments

Add yours