Norled and Brodrene Aa sign contract to build a new hybrid electric ferry
Norled has awarded Brødrene Aa a contract for the construction of a new hybrid electric vessel which will be named MS "Bre".
The fast boat will be used both as a reserve vessel on the connection Bodø-Væran and Bodø-Gildeskål, and as a 100% electric sightseeing boat in the periods when it does not enter regular routes.
"This is one of three new environmental vessels specially built for the association. Norled will have a hybridization rate of 70% electric operation when operating the routes, which will help to reduce emissions on the connection considerably, says Heidi Wolden", managing director of Norled.
Brim Explorer will operate the sightseeing vessel in the areas around Bodø. MS "Bre" is designed as a modern and universally designed vessel with good passenger comfort and panoramic windows for optimal views. There will be room for 130 passengers, as well as luggage, bicycles and kayaks.
The top speed will be around 30 knots and the length of the vessel is 24 metres. It will be equipped with 1.2 MWh of batteries, and an all-electric powertrain with diesel-powered range extenders.
"We are of course very happy about the contract with Norled to build the reserve vessel for these routes. It is particularly gratifying that two shipping companies with which we already have an established partnership are coming together in this way. Low weight and energy efficiency are crucial in meeting low and zero emission requirements and with this vessel we get to demonstrate how a light construction material such as carbon fiber gives advantages both in operations at low speed and as a fast boat. At the same time, the material ensures a long life for the boat. Together with the combined operation that the shipping companies are planning for, it provides good resource utilization. All these important aspects that are positive from a sustainability perspective", says Tor Øyvin Aa, general manager of Brødrene Aa.
This type of cooperation on a tender route is a very good way to make better use of resources. For both Norled and Brim Explorer, this is a win-win situation, where Norled builds a vessel that meets the criteria of the tender contract, and Brim Explorer gets a flexible vessel that can offer emission-free experiences in a new area of Northern Norway.
"Bodø is the gateway to a beautiful area in Nordland that we look forward to exploring with guests on board. We believe our products will be a positive contribution to an exciting and growing destination", says Agnes Árnadóttir, general manager of Brim Explorer.