Stena RoRo Launches Innovative Battery Hybrid Ferry, Guillaume de Normandie

Stena RoRo Enhances Fleet with Battery Hybrid Vessel

Stena RoRo has recently marked a significant milestone in maritime transportation with the delivery of the E-Flexer No. 12, named the Guillaume de Normandie. This innovative vessel was built at the CMI Jinling shipyard in Weihai, China, and has been specifically designed to meet the increasing demand for environmentally friendly ferry solutions.

The launch of this vessel is particularly noteworthy as it will be operated under a long-term charter with Brittany Ferries, a leading French shipping company. Set to commence service in April 2025, the Guillaume de Normandie will take over the highly trafficked Portsmouth - Caen route, replacing an older vessel that has served the route since 1992. This delivery marks the completion of a total of five E-Flexer ships ordered for the Brittany Ferries fleet, emphasizing a strategic shift towards modern and efficient transport systems.

The Guillaume de Normandie features state-of-the-art multi-fuel engines and boasts the largest battery-hybrid system in the market, with a capacity of 12 MWh. One of the standout features of this ferry is its ability to operate entirely on battery power while maneuvering in and out of ports. This capability significantly reduces emissions during critical docking and undocking phases, thereby adhering to stringent environmental standards.

In alignment with Stena RoRo's commitment to sustainability, the E-Flexer design has continuously evolved to meet both current and future environmental regulations. The technical innovations inherent in the design allow the Guillaume de Normandie to exceed international standards, setting a high benchmark for the maritime industry.

Moreover, the ferry is equipped with an 8 MW shore connection for rapid battery charging, enabling it to maintain a zero-emissions status while docked. When solely powered by its battery system, the ship can achieve speeds of up to 17.5 knots, illustrating the efficacy of its renewable energy integration.

The versatility of fuel options for the vessel further enhances its appeal. The Guillaume de Normandie can be operated using marine diesel (MGO), liquefied natural gas (LNG), biodiesel, or biogas, making it adaptable to a range of operational policies. Furthermore, its PTI/PTO system allows for efficient propulsion and can also facilitate battery-only operation in the future, depending on operational requirements.

Designed by Figura Arkitekter AB, the modern interior of the ferry reflects influences from Normandy, enhancing the travel experience for passengers. The ship has the capacity to accommodate 1,300 passengers along with 2,410 lane meters of cargo, which includes 176 lane meters designated for personal vehicles. With 222 passenger cabins spread across four decks and various onboard amenities such as restaurants and lounges, the Guillaume de Normandie promises a comfortable journey across the waters.

Per Westling, Managing Director of Stena RoRo AB, expressed pride in the delivery, highlighting that the continuous development of the E-Flexer vessels allows the company to offer flexible and future-proof solutions that surpass today's maritime environmental requirements. The arrival of the Guillaume de Normandie represents a significant advancement in ferry technology, which complements the modernization efforts of Brittany Ferries’ fleet.

Overall, Stena RoRo’s commitment to sustainability, ease of operation, and passenger comfort positions the Guillaume de Normandie as a pivotal player in the future of maritime transport. With this new vessel, both Brittany Ferries and Stena RoRo set their sights on a greener and more efficient maritime industry for years to come.

For those interested in more about this impressive vessel or Stena RoRo's broader fleet initiatives, further information is available on their official website and through industry publications.